Ball joints or rack???

[mistervoo]

Hey everybody, I would really like your advice on an issue i've been having with my Explorer. My steering has been progressively getting worse and stiffer. At first i thought it may have been the pump. I brought it into the shop and got it checked out. The mechanic said that i needed new ball joints because mine were very very loose and that i may need a new rack cause it may be clogged and that's why I'm my steering has been down the crapper. He suggested i fix the ball joints because it was a big safety issue and he'd also flush the rack for me and see if that works for the time being. I am no expert by far. If anyone can give me some input I would greatly appreciate it. Are these loose ball joints really a safety issue? He made it sould like they were a pretty big deal. Thanks in advanced.

 

[Hartman]

Do you get any squeaking from your front suspension while going over bumps or when turning? If so, you need new balljoints. If they aren't squeaking, that means they're just starting to go bad and they are not unsafe. But you need to get them replaced as soon as you can. My bad balljoints caused my power steering pump to go, so just keep that in mind.

 

[Rhett]

I didn't think Explorers had rack and pinion steering! ??
Do they?

 

[Hartman]

2nd gens do.

 

[mistervoo]

Phatty customs Hartman. I don't get any squeaking from suspension. You think maybe the rack is clogged? If it is clogged, any cheaper to fix it then a full replacing? Can i get it flushed?

 

[Hartman]

If your power steering fluid looks black, I would first try to flush it out. I haven't done it but I'm told it's done the same way you would flush out a radiator.

Also another way to test the balljoints is to put the front end on jackstands and try to turn your wheel manually (as in making a turn). If there's play there, your balljoints are going bad.

 

[Mbrooks420]

A rack isn't cheap. I had to replace mine because it was leaking really bad. I talked to my mechanic and he said it was a PITA job. I considered doing it myself, but didn't. Afterwards he said I should be glad I didn't try and do it myself. I've never heard of flushing one, but I imagine it wouldn't be hard/expensive.

 

[Pemerling]

mmmm a nice big rack........ sorry guys ive been up for three days straight... only one more final left and ill be graditated.... hahaaaaaaaaa i think i need to go find a cool chick to hang out ... .peace