Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Ball joints and fuel gauge

[PSoffe]

I am sure that this has been addressed several hundred times, but how difficult is a ball joint replacment on the 2001 4wd. All are worn and front tires are shot. Will need to replace both tires along with tie rod ends.



Also, not sure if this is related or just coincidence, installed a FASS few months back and have noticed that the fuel gauge does not register correctly. It will show half and after a several miles of driving move down towards the correct level. Is the sending unit going bad? I just replaced it about two years ago.

 

[bbodammer]

Do a search on balljoints and you'll get some real good info. Good to get under there ahead of time and start lubing stuff up. You can also make a push bar from a spare socket extension and use your power steering to push the assembly out. Worked well for me, but had to blow torch out the old joints#@$%!. You'll need a BFH for tear down and some anti-sieze for re-assembly. Others may be able to point you towards some links. If not PM me and I have a list of the correct tools and stuff you'll need, just haven't had time to post it up yet. It took about 3 hours per side, but I'm sure next time we could do both in under two. Good luck