Ball Joints

[EStadler]

Is there a replacement procedure for ball joints in any one of the TDR editions?
I am looking at replacing the bj's om my 2004.5 long bed 3500 4x4 with 145K miles. I have most of the TDR issues and thought it would be nice to be able to follow the advice and procedure that one of you expert has documented.
I see in the posts that many of you have done the replacement and what the recommended replacements are. So, that much is pretty well covered.
I'm not having any problems at this point (steering or tire wear) but recently at the wheel alignment phase of a new set of tires, I was told the ball joints were loose.
Also, what about Luke Links at the same time?

Thanks--Ed
2004.5 long bed 3500 lariat 4x4 SRW, 6 spd NV5600, PAC brake and air bags

 

[DonFitzwater]

"I was told the ball joints were loose"

Up and down or side play? American Axles have up and down play in the ball joints and too many shops deem them loose/bad without really knowing how they are to be tested.

 

[JKosten]

Here is an install guide for aftermarket Carli Ball joints.

http://www.carlisuspension.com/Instructions/Dodge/Components/Instructions - CS-DBJP.pdf

They will give you a pretty idea of what the job will require if you do not have a factory service manual (I would recommend getting one).

 

[EDankievitch]

I'm liking these XRF units I installed in my 2013 over 15K miles and still like the day I installed them.

 

[EStadler]

Thanks "J"
Looks like a very comprehensive instructions. I will probably follow your suggestion about the service manual as well.
I like my pickup and it has served me well so, I plan on keeping it. So far it has done well while pulling my 14K GVW 5th wheel.
Ed

 

[BILTIT]

These are your best bet, high quality and priced right! Rebuildable in truck too.

https://emfballjoints.com/collectio...-13-lower-and-03-15-upper-ball-joint-set-of-4

 

[Deleted member 995608]

When I still had my 3rd gen, the best tool I ever bought was a ball joint press. My truck ate the upper and lower joints annually.

 

[brods]

These are your best bet, high quality and priced right! Rebuildable in truck too.

https://emfballjoints.com/collectio...-13-lower-and-03-15-upper-ball-joint-set-of-4

Do you have them on your truck?

 

[BILTIT]

Yes i certainly do.

 

[mfurrh55]

I installed the XRF lifetime greasable joints, they seem to be holding up fine.be sure and get you a ball joint press, makes changing out easier, Have fun!

 

[EStadler]

Thanks to All for your responses. They are good confidence builders.
I have not torn my truck down yet to replace the BJ's but am feeling better about doing it.

Ed Stadler

 

[brods]

Yes i certainly do.

Cool. How long / miles have you had them in? Any likes or dislikes that stand out?

Thanks to All for your responses. They are good confidence builders.

I have not torn my truck down yet to replace the BJ's but am feeling better about doing it.



Ed Stadler

I didn't see if you mentioned your location, but if you live in the rust belt be prepared for the unit bearings to put up a fight when removing them.

 

[BILTIT]

I put them in last summer so only about 10,000km on them. I like that they come with regular nuts for seating them and then you put on nyloks. I also like that they come with install cups. No dislikes at the moment.

 

[EDankievitch]

Having done this job a few times now I'd recommend picking up the Snap on Ball Joint press Kit. Everyone else's Ball Joint press just up to the task they do not hold up. I've bent a few. I've seen them on EBay for a fair price. When you'd done you can keep it or re list it. Just a thought.

 

[JKosten]

Having done this job a few times now I'd recommend picking up the Snap on Ball Joint press Kit. Everyone else's Ball Joint press just up to the task they do not hold up. I've bent a few. I've seen them on EBay for a fair price. When you'd done you can keep it or re list it. Just a thought.

Or OTC 8031 Ball Joint Press https://www.amazon.com/OTC-Ball-Joint-Jeep-Truck/dp/B000O1E52E/

https://www.otctools.com/products/jeeptruck-ball-joint-set

#ad

A complete set of adapters and special large C-frame to remove and install ball joints on most Chrysler/Dodge light-duty trucks, 1999 - 2006 and Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, and Liberty vehicles 1997 - 2006.

The high clearance, specially designed and produced OTC large C-frame allows for the repair of the most recent vehicles.

Large C-frame, 19 adapters, and replaceable forcing screw tip to allow the use of the adapters in the 6530 kit to be used for other applications.

Kit comes in a blow-molded case and includes an application chart and instructions.​

 

[BentSteel]

Carli ball joint's are the best investment you could ever do when rebuilding your front end , it is a must do if you are going to keep your rig running down the road nice and straight all other part's are easy to install when needed..

 

[Hootguy]

These are your best bet, high quality and priced right! Rebuildable in truck too.

https://emfballjoints.com/collectio...-13-lower-and-03-15-upper-ball-joint-set-of-4

looks like Carli's got some serious competition now,i like the EMF idea better,so they'll be going on my Megacab in the spring,