2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Ball joiints?

[RGardner]

How long should ball joints last? What else should be replaced at the same time?

 

[wilsonsh]

It really depends on your driving habits. These are common failure points and you should consider the adjustable ball joints so you can adjust caster in the future.



If I was replacing my ball joints, I'd do the propeller shaft u-joints, wheel bearings, and axle seals.



I'm sure you'll get plenty of help on this one...

 

[CumminsPower98]

I see a lot of ball joint trouble on here but I have had good luck with mine. I have personally put 329k on my OE joints and they are still tight. I replaced the axle when I got the truck and the replacement had 126k on it and I don't know its history so it could have as many as 455k if they are the originals. I did put zerks in the lowers but not right away. Same goes for the wheel bearings and I also made these greaseable along the way.

 

[rotohead]

I just finnished replacing my ball joints, axle ujoints, bearing hub assembly, control arms, sway bar bushing/links. This was at 112k. My oem ball joints were tight but were getting dry when I changed them. My axle ujoints started binding (left side) and that is what pushed me to do it all at the same time. Glad I did because the binding axle ujoint was really causing a stress on the axle seal and inner shaft. I only drove it 20 miles before I did the work and I was surprised at the damage to the shaft seal surface. I should have replaced the inner shaft, but I didn't and I may regret that but so far so good.

 

[monkeyman]

I have 147,000 miles, have gone through two sets.
Rick

 

[RGardner]

So what is the cost involved with all this?

 

[SSolderitch]

I had a set or 4 installed along with a inner tie rod end. parts, labor, alignment & 6% sales tax came to almost $1K. I don't know what brand was installed but they are greasable.

 

[monkeyman]

If you do it yourself its not that bad in parts. I don't have the stock steering so tie rods are not a problem.
Rick