Replace upper ball joint boot only?

[Recoil Rob]

While doing brakes last month I noticed one of my ball joint boots was torn. No other apparent problems so I was wondering if I can just remove the ball joint nut, lower the knuckle, repack with grease and slip on a new boot?

Ford doesn't have new boots, I'd have to search out something aftermarket. Anything I should be concerned about?


thanks,

Rob

 

[imp]

While doing brakes last month I noticed one of my ball joint boots was torn. No other apparent problems so I was wondering if I can just remove the ball joint nut, lower the knuckle, repack with grease and slip on a new boot?

Ford doesn't have new boots, I'd have to search out something aftermarket. Anything I should be concerned about?


thanks,

Rob

@Recoil Rob Pop the stud loose, move it around with your fingers. Usually, enough crap gets in with a torn boot, it will wreck the joint if continued to use. If it feels tight, and you found a boot, I'd replace the boot, sure. Boots usually get ruined by use of a "pickle-fork" expander tool; yours is already shot. imp

 

[Recoil Rob]

Yeah, problem is finding a boot. Apparently since these units were OEM complete there are no parts. Might make some calls in the am.

 

[swshawaii]

If the ball joint's are OK, Prothane's "may" be an option since the Daystar's are discontinued..
Ball Joint Dust Boots. Prothane 191828
Aftermarket Universal Dust Boots | Polyurethane Replacement Dust Cover

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums...st-boot-upper-ball-joint.343746/#post-2914928

 

[firefly1246]

I would recommend replacing with a new Moog ball joint. The prothane ones are not compleltly sealed and there are none that are the correct size. I had the same issue you are having about 5 years ago and went through the same problem.

The stock upper balljoint is a known weak spot on these vehicles mostly due to early boot failures.

My explorer has 146k miles and I replaced upper ball joints at 75k and just recently changed the lower balljoints and tie rod ends. My moog upper balljoints were still in great condition when I replaced the lowers.

 

[Recoil Rob]

That's my thinking now too, thanks Scott.

 

[Number Twelve]

Replacing the uppers isn't a horrible job. I did both the ball joint and upper arm assemblies for $200 and 3 hours of work, based on not having a clue when I started. Alignment shop showed no deviance from proper settings.

 

[Recoil Rob]

I just ordered a set of UCA from MOOG. They offer two types BTW, the R series is not made by them and is like the Ford OEM, ball joints not replaceable, no grease fitting. I got the C series which they manufacture with replaceable ball joints and zerks.

Back under the truck again.


thanks,

Rob

 

[Spacedog1]

While doing brakes last month I noticed one of my ball joint boots was torn. No other apparent problems so I was wondering if I can just remove the ball joint nut, lower the knuckle, repack with grease and slip on a new boot?

Ford doesn't have new boots, I'd have to search out something aftermarket. Anything I should be concerned about?


thanks,

Rob

Whatabout some of that Spray on leak stuff, Seams like it would seal and flex..

 

[Donystoy]

Carquest up here in Ontario has replacement boots.