New Guy with a problem (ofcourse)

[IneptCorpse]

Hey All,
Will be doing some forum searches but thought I would post here real quick. I have a '97 XLT love the vehicle except I have had to have the upper's and lower's (control arms and joints) replaced twice so far on both sides. Only have 134K miles and this seem excessive to me. Is this a known issue or maybe a recall that got pencil whipped through and not ever done correctly? Just wondered. Thanks ahead of time for any info. Vehicle is stock btw and never off roaded.

 

[swetrid]

Every explorer requires the front end to rebuilt often( about every 75k or so) and also depends on what parts you are using.

 

[1AJeremyD]

Welcome to the forum! Xs are known for having issues with the ball joints and hubs. Hopefully you can get the same if not better life out of the new ones

 

[Hitchhikingmike]

I replaces the front ball joints on my explorer 30k miles ago and the left lower one is bad again. I do believe however, that I purchased inferior parts. I hear the best suspension parts are made by Moog. Moog parts are more expensive but they should last longer than the cheaper ones. I will be getting Moog parts next time.

Explorers are heavy vehicles, replacing front end ball joints every 75k miles should be considered maintenance.

 

[1AJeremyD]

Moog parts having the grease fittings really helps the longevity of the joint. It really all depends on how you drive and where you drive in the end.

 

[IneptCorpse]

Thanks All

Thanks for the information and responses everyone, yeah looks like putting in MOOG's would be a good idea. Is it possible to do one side at a time if putting in MOOG's or do I need to do both sides at the same time? Just trying to budget for it.
Thanks again

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! Replace both at the same time since they have equal wear.