BALL JOINT's NEED REPLACING, SIR.... oh sh_t... seriously? help?

[tpstaples]

Hey there,

I have a 1991 ford explorer.

I just got word from the mechanic doing my brake lines (which were leaking) that I need my lower ball joints (2 of them) replaced.

does anyone know how hard it is to replace these.?? I looked up the part at Autozone.com and they're telling me that it's like 30 bucks per balljoint. Which is a great price... But that makes me think that replacing the ball joints is a serious job for the guy to want to charge me 400.

the mechanic says that the truck is not driveable without them replaced. validity?????

I've read postings on ball joints.. and it seems to be a straight forward job with the right harbor freight press tool for 30 bucks..

Anyone in Massachusetts wanna help me fix this thing?

what do you guys think?

thanks

 

[Robb]

Yea, $400 is a bit steep for balljoints.

All you really need:
-balljoint press
-Haynes manual (or similar)
-the balljoints

It is a pretty straightforward procedure, and NO WAY worth $400. Also, if DIY, get a good set of greasable balljoints like MOOGs.

 

[caldi55]

NTB its cost me $900 but that includes a lifetime warante and lifetime alignments.

 

[tpstaples]

it's my understanding that NTB is one of the most expensive places on the planet to bring your truck or car...

 

[huskyfan23]

Sears quoted me $700, did it myself. It really isn't that bad. I HIGHLY suggest taking the knuckles to a shop and getting the ball joints pressed out, new ones pressed in. That'll save you around an hour of work. I bought the balljoints from Rockauto.com. You need the balljoints, grease, greasegun, and maybe tie-rod ends.

 

[caldi55]

well free alignments (normally $80 a pop) and lifetime warenty since I plan to keep my truck another 5 years is worth it to me. Its a super pain in the ass to replace them.

 

[huskyfan23]

well free alignments (normally $80 a pop) and lifetime warenty since I plan to keep my truck another 5 years is worth it to me. Its a super pain in the ass to replace them.

It's all really straight forward. The first time it was a pain for me, just because none of the things behind the caliper had ever been removed. I wish I would've gotten everything pressed at a shop though.