Upper Ball Joint replacement on 03 Sports Trac

[Westsign]

Hi,
I was thinking of replacing upper ball joint on Drivers side in the front.
Can you replace just the ball joint or do you have to replace UCA with ball joint already pressed on.
I'm a little concerned about replacing the UCA and getting lined up correctly to avoid a front wheel alignment.
Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks,
westsign

 

[Paul Fithian]

Rebuild the entire front suspension while you are at it, parts are only ~ $100. Get an alignment done afterwards. It will drive like new.

See New 12pc Complete Suspension Kit for Sport Trac - 1-Piece Design -Torsion Bar | eBay

 

[koda2000]

If the '03 uses the same parts as the '01-'02 (check part numbers) you need to replace the complete upper control arm, as the OE upper ball joints themselves are not replaceable. The passenger CA side is a 2-piece design and much easier to replace. I wouldn't do this job w/out replacing both uppers and both lowers. You can do it with decent quality parts for around $100 with parts from RockAuto (I used Quik Steer lower BJ's and Moog service grade upper CA's).

Some here complained about how difficult it is to remove the CA bolts on the driver's side, but I've done it 4-5 times on various Gen II Explorers, Mountaineers and my '01 ST without much difficulty.

 

[Westsign]

Thanks guys for your input appreciate it.