I'm looking at rebuilding the front end (steering, suspension) and can't find a kit to do it. Does anyone know where I can find a kit or will I be buying the peices individually?

 

It's easier to help out if you post the year and model of your truck. It's convenient if you have it listed in your signature. I checked out your profile and saw you have a '52 F-3.

That being said, you can try Kanters, www.kanter.com, LMC, www.lmctruck.com or Job Lot Auto, www.joblotauto.com.

You might be better off going to a good, local auto parts store and getting your parts there. You'll probably save on shipping and have the added benefit of being able to go back if there's a problem and having the problem resolved in a quicker manner.

 

Howdy,


NAPA and others can get steering and suspension parts from Rare Parts.

Steering & Suspension, All American Cars, Import Cars, Off Road and Trucks | RareParts.com


They can either supply parts for common cars and trucks, or in some cases they''ll make the part for you.

Rare Parts is where the oversize king-pin came from for my 55 F-600.


They used to only sell to dealers but it appears that they may sell to individual non-dealers now too.

They may even be an FTE advertiser......if they aren't, they should be!!


Cheers,


Rick

 

LMC, Carpenter and C&G have all the parts kits you need.

I just did this on my 51 F1 and got all I needed at C&G.

You also need to be sure to inspect (replace as necessary) and repack your front wheel bearings.

Here they are - kit numbers are on on the pictures:

Kingpins:



U-Bolts:



Front Spring Pin Kit:



Drag Link Repair Kit:



Tie Rod Ends:



The link to C&G:

https://secure435.hostgator.com/~dlv...ectCatalog.php

And here is the link to the thread we ran throughout my rebuild process - front end, front springs and back springs - long, but good reading and lots of good suggestions:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...-end-savy.html

 

I got all the front end parts at NAPA but an F-3 might be a bit more difficult than an F-1. As a side note, the front ends are fairly simple to rebuild but I have an acetylene torch that helped to loosen things up. I don't know if all kits are the same but mine required reaming of the kingpin bushings. Had to bring the front axle to a shop to have them fit the pins.

 

Thanks for all the info. I'm a little nervous about tearing into this project. I keep hearing stories about how hard it is to get the old kingpins out. It should be interesting to say the least.

 

i have a brand new in the box bushing and pin kit for a 49 f1 if its the same ill give ya a good price on it