lower ball joint

[djwink]

I noticed that the rubber seal on the lower ball joint passenger side is torn. Could this be the source of my clunking noise? Should it be changed? 2000 ford explorer

 

[koda2000]

if the rubber boot is shot it's diffenately time for new ball joints. i just changed all four of mine, plus the sway bar end links with Moog parts for about $175 from RockAuto. takes about 5-6 hours to do it yourself. the lower bj's usually go first, but on a 2000 you're probably ready for uppers and lowers.

 

[dkchrist]

Don't cheap out and just get the joint only depending on the miles the rubber bushings are probably toast. Don't forget the alignment check after its done.

 

[koda2000]

Don't cheap out and just get the joint only depending on the miles the rubber bushings are probably toast. Don't forget the alignment check after its done.

if your bushings are worn, by all means replace them. my lowers were still good and as i was replacing my OE uppers, the replacement Moogs include the upper control arm with ball joint and bushings installed. and yes, you'll need an alignment when you're done.