Frustrated with front end squeaking

[Cincinnati Wolf]

Check Tie Rod Ends

This happened to my 1998 XLT about 3 years ago. Dealer and tire store told me it was my Edelbrock IAS Shocks failing. I replaced them under warranty and the squeak still existed.

It ended up being binding tie rod ends. During inspections the tie rod ends did not appear to be bad because they didn't show the typical loose play but they were binding and when you turned, went over bumps or just bounced the front end up and down they would squeak. Replaced all and the problem disappeared. All the mechanics that had looked at it, some multiple times, were suprised by this failure mode.

 

[tote]

My first post.
I found this site while looking for info on ball joints for my 2004 Explorer. I am experiencing the same squeeking on the front end. Especially frustrating when going over bumps in a campground. Everyone looks.
I took it to a very reputable shop and they said it was the ball joints.
Estimate for replacement...$1800.. OUCH.
Of course Chiltons said they cannot be serviced hence the expensive repair.
Then I found this site and lo and behold...they CAN be serviced.
Being my first time doing this it took me ALL day..a few snafus along the way like the lower ball joints not seperating from the knuckle with the pickle fork so I had to cut through them then press the stud out...pressing one of the upper ball joints in backwards (it was late and I was so so tired) then the press tool getting pressed onto the control arm because of the lip in the bottom side..which now was the top side because I did it backwards. Thank goodness I have a friend close who had a real press. It was a quick fix and I now have a real press after that fiasco.
Snapped the zirc on one of the lower ball joints. I was sure there was enough room for one more turn.
Anyway, both upper and lower front ball joints have been replaced....and it still squeeks.
Going to do the bushings today if I can pick them up.
The only reason I didn't order the whole upper control arm is because I didn't want to have to wait for shipping. Only so many free days to work on this stuff.
Thanks for the forum fellas (and gals). The info here is very much appreciated.

 

[98EdBomber]

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