Upper Ball Joints - Gen1 2WD

[Vic Sorlie]

While changing oil on my former Gen1 Trac that my son now has, I noticed the L upper ball joint grease boot has failed. There's guidance for lower joints (4WD) in the Project section, but nada for uppers. This project's probably similar, but has anybody done this job? Truck has 103K on it, so I'm guessing that I should do both sides, maybe lowers too?

 

[swshawaii]

Vic- Having a leaking drivers side boot, it's probably best to replace at 103K.

If you want to test them, lift each wheel off the ground by the lower control arm

and check for movement. You will need camber adjusters if it's a 2001-03.

The ball joint itself is not replaceable, only the complete upper control arm.

Wheel alignment will probably be needed, unless you are using the two piece arm.



http://www.moogproblemsolver.com/_pdf_en1/MOOG_PS_Bulletin_27045_Ford_Truck_Control_Arms_En.pdf



http://www.moogproblemsolver.com/_pdf_en2/DYK10_106_En.pdf

 

[Vic Sorlie]

Yeah, it's a 2002. From viewing diagram at sponsor Fast Parts and NAPA search, it looks like I would replace the whole control arm, and same if I were going to replace the lower ball joints. Anything special about working around those torsion bars?

 

[swshawaii]

The torsion bars shouldn't interfere with the lower ball joint replacement.

Highly advised you rent the ball joint press. Lower project, same author.

 

[Jim Mills]

I gaurantee it will ride like a different truck! I did uppers, lowers, Alignment & new tires at 110k & couldnt believe the difference. No more 2ft bounce left or right when I hit a bump!Definately use MOOG on the lowers as thats where all the weight is. Good luck!