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Front end wear

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Old Aug 19, 2008 | 01:14 PM
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Front end wear

I am going to be replacing my brakes soon and i figured while i was in there i would do some front end maintainance. 03 with almost 90000 miles. I don't know how to describe it but the front end seems like some things are worn out. There is somewhat of a vibration at highway speeds when taking corners, thinking maybe a bearing wearing out? Also when you go over bumps it is like something is worn or almost loose. What are some ot the common maintainance things i should do while i am in there. I figured if the bearings aren't that expensive i will just replace both of them right away. Thanks for any advice with helping me make her "new" again!
 
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Old Aug 19, 2008 | 01:35 PM
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The front unit bearings are bit expensive (relative) but may be the source of the vibration.

However, I would rule out all the simple stuff first.

Check all your joints in the steering components for excessive play and inspect your ball joints.

Lube your needle bearings Welcome to guzzle's 4x4 Needle Bearing Maintenance Web Page

Verify the alignment.
 
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Old Aug 19, 2008 | 02:36 PM
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Have you done ball joints yet? They may be another source for sloppiness in the front end. You can check them while you have it up on stands. With the tire on use a large pry bar or a 2X4 and pry up on the wheel and check for slop. If you think they need replaced check this thread out.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/3...ll-joints.html
 
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Old Aug 19, 2008 | 05:42 PM
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Have you put new shocks on it yet? I just found out how badly worn they can be at 80K, and what an improvement new ones make. It's like night and day!
 
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Old Aug 19, 2008 | 05:53 PM
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What is a good shock to buy in a medium price range...
 
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Old Aug 19, 2008 | 08:29 PM
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Thanks for the help everyone. I will check the ball joints this weekend. Where is a good place to get new ball joints if i need to? I know the shocks need to be replaced but this is more of a vibration rather than a bumpy ride.
 
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Old Aug 19, 2008 | 09:36 PM
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Originally Posted by Fair 96
What is a good shock to buy in a medium price range...
Bilstein's aren't cheap but they are very good shock. Many people have replaced OEM with these and love them. They're worth the little extra money.
Other's have said good things about Edelbrock and Monroe as well.
Originally Posted by ponch37300
Thanks for the help everyone. I will check the ball joints this weekend. Where is a good place to get new ball joints if i need to? I know the shocks need to be replaced but this is more of a vibration rather than a bumpy ride.
I bought the complete kit from these guys.
Powerstrokeshop.com

You could purchase the ball joints from Rock Auto and the seals from FTE Parts Guy as well.
 
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Old Aug 20, 2008 | 07:21 AM
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Fair 96 there is no such thing as a good middle priced shock. Spend a little extra and get some Bilstiens about 250 for all 4. They are worth every penny.

Good luck
 
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Old Aug 20, 2008 | 07:44 AM
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2004 F250 4x4 6.0 CC
73K Miles


I had the same condition with my truck. New upper and lower ball joints, new steering gear box, new shocks (all stock components worn out). Lubed up everything. Runs great now.

Replaced everything myself with the help of this forum. Saved a ton of $ Thanks.
 
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Old Aug 20, 2008 | 01:34 PM
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Thanks again everyone. I'm going to order the ball joint kit and start with that and then replace the shocks cause i know they need it to. I'll lube the needle bearings while i'm in there to. And then put the power slots on and see how it rides then. If the bearings do need to be replaced what all do i need for them? The whole hub or do they sell just the bearings? Thanks again
 
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Old Aug 20, 2008 | 03:26 PM
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Originally Posted by ffadragon
Fair 96 there is no such thing as a good middle priced shock. Spend a little extra and get some Bilstiens about 250 for all 4. They are worth every penny.

Good luck
Thanks alot I will go with them..
Luke
 
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Old Aug 20, 2008 | 03:35 PM
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Originally Posted by ponch37300
Thanks again everyone. I'm going to order the ball joint kit and start with that and then replace the shocks cause i know they need it to. I'll lube the needle bearings while i'm in there to. And then put the power slots on and see how it rides then. If the bearings do need to be replaced what all do i need for them? The whole hub or do they sell just the bearings? Thanks again
The bearings are sealed and not serviceable so you need the whole hub. Also if you are replacing it you might want to make your life easier and get the mounting studs and nuts. You'll need four each for each side.

Studs: F81Z-1107-AA
Nuts: F81Z-1120-AA
 
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Old Aug 20, 2008 | 08:08 PM
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Thanks again everyone and monster for the part numbers.
 
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Old Aug 20, 2008 | 08:32 PM
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I got an 03 with 176000 and all Ive done so far is one set of breaks. Im not sure why the stock parts are holding up so good, but im glad they are.
 
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