Changing shocks...what else recommended?

[Chiefshb]

Hey all...I'll be changing my shocks next weekend and just wondering what else I should do while down there. I'll also be doing my plugs and wires while in there...thoughts?

**Edit** Sorry...let me add some info. It's a '05 ST with 127k miles and all suspension parts are stock. Nothing seems to be failing or has failed, but I'd rather look at replacing something before it happens.

Thanks.

 

[swshawaii]

At 127K, lift the tires from the LCA's and inspect lower and upper ball joints,
sway bar end links and frame bushings, tie rods, etc. Loosen or remove the
EVAP canister for the drivers rear shock, and be careful with the hoses. GL

 

[Chiefshb]

Thanks for the info. What's this EVAP canister you speak of? I've looked it up and see it isn't expensive, but what does it do? Also...are you saying I should do away with it or replace it?

 

[swshawaii]

After lowering the spare tire, look at the two top shock mount bolts.
Don't need to replace the black box, it's designed to capture gas fumes
and fuel overflow making access to the rear bolt difficult. A 13mm swivel
head Gearwrench makes R&R much easier. Also, replace your fuel filter.
http://www.sears.com/gearwrench-13m...ing-combination-wrench/p-00947899000P?prdNo=1

Search through the Gen 1 (2001-05) ST sub forum, lot's of useful info.
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=120

 

[gtyates]

I have to agree on the sway bar end links and bushings suggestion. Makes a huge difference in handling!

 

[Chiefshb]

Thanks for the info. I'll be changing the sway bar links and bushings since I'm there. I'll look into the EVAP canister.

Fuel filter was just changed.

Thanks, again.

**Edit** Now I feel like an idiot. I just got what you were saying about the canister...to be mindful of it. This is what happens when a thread is started while under the influence. I'll be adding the wrench to my collection, too. Thanks for the info.

 

[Chiefshb]

Well...life seems to find a way to get in the way of plans. So...the shocks appear to be on hold for at least another week. I saw this on Ebay and was wondering what you guys thought about getting these parts.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/10-PCS-SUSP...Parts_Accessories&hash=item1e72b72d1d&vxp=mtr

 

[swshawaii]

Well...life seems to find a way to get in the way of plans. So...the shocks appear to be on hold for at least another week. I saw this on Ebay and was wondering what you guys thought about getting these parts.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/10-PCS-SUSP...Parts_Accessories&hash=item1e72b72d1d&vxp=mtr

Different kit of comparable quality. They're disposable parts. :thumbdwn:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=373641

 

[Chiefshb]

Thanks for the info. I went ahead and ordered Moog front and rear sway bar links. I'll look at the rest when I get in there.

 

[Chiefshb]

Ok...new front and rear sway bar link ends, plugs, wires, shocks, and front brakes tomorrow. Should be a fun day!!

 

[Markaprice73]

that's quite an undertaking for 1 day. it would be for me at least. I've done all these items but did them each different days. just take your time. no rushing. I've found that when I am rushing working on a vehicle it's not much fun at all. But, very enjoyable going slow. Working on my vehicles is my hobby(and a must cause times are rough) and I try to enjoy it. good luck. btw..repack the front wheel bearings next.(new seals when you do)

 

[Chiefshb]

Done...damn, that sucked. The only thing that was difficult was the spark plugs. Passenger side and front, driver's side were a PITA!! Driver's rear shock was a bit time consuming, but all went smooth. 6 1/2 hours to change front and rear sway bar link ends, plugs, wires, all 4 shocks, and front brakes...I may not make a NASCAR pit team, but I can say I did it...well, with the help of this forum. Thanks for all the help, everyone!! Now I have to tackle this issue:

Not all are this bad, but all are looking rough.

 

[Markaprice73]

great job man! congats! looks like we were both commenting at the same time. Ya body bushings are on my list as well. way down the list. doesn't look like fun at all.

 

[Chiefshb]

Thanks, bud and no...it doesn't look like fun at all!! Time to look through the forum to see what is involved.

If you tackle it, update this thread to let me know how bad it sucked!

I'm trying to do all the "needs" before I get to all the "wants", but the needs keep piling up. Feels like I'll never get to the wants column!!!!

After this project, I now have my first upgrade that I NEED to do...electric motor for the spare tire!! I'll keep all posted on this. Also on the list is a second battery and bigger alternator. My father in-law build ambulances and they rip out 200 amp alternators and battery boxes and scrap them. I'm gonna try to see if I can get a couple...maybe a couple of each!! Will keep everyone posted on that, as well.

 

[Chiefshb]

that's quite an undertaking for 1 day. it would be for me at least. I've done all these items but did them each different days. just take your time. no rushing. I've found that when I am rushing working on a vehicle it's not much fun at all. But, very enjoyable going slow. Working on my vehicles is my hobby(and a must cause times are rough) and I try to enjoy it. good luck. btw..repack the front wheel bearings next.(new seals when you do)

I just reread this thread and saw this post. It probably was a bit much for 1 day, but it's done. I have some work to on my other car as well (HID lights for low beams and fogs). I'm on vacation this week and want to enjoy it, but have to get the "to do" list out of the way.

I'm a computer geek by profession, so working on my cars is a bit of a concern for me. If I crash a server, I don't care cause no one dies, but if I crash a car...different outcome!!! I'm finding it's a lot alike. Each piece has a purpose and relies on the next piece.

Front wheel bearing got repacked with new seals in June when I replaced the rotors and pads for the first time. The Weaver ceramic pads I used were terrible. Sounded like the brakes were grinding. I thought the noise would work itself out, but it never did. Replaced the pads with OEM pads from the Ford dealer...no more noise.