ball joints on 4x4

[ram2nv]

Hi Gang, I just found out that my RAM needs lower ball joints. So I figure that I might as well do all of them at the same time. My question is how hard is it to do?? Any special tools needed?? My RAM is a '96 4x4 ext lwb, just a little BOMBED. I f any one has any good suggestions on where to have it done in the Ogden,Ut area I am open for them also. I have had one quote of $600, to have all four done. I felt that was a little high or am I up in the night??? Please let me know,THANKS Perry. -- email address removed --

 

[Alaskaskiff]

Not real hard to do. Looking at close to $250 in new ball joints (from NAPA), more from the stealer.



You will have to take rotors/bearing assembly out to take them out. You will need a big socket for the axle nut and it may be seized. Then the bearing/rotor assembly is held in with 4 bolts from the back. They are a 12 pt pattern, don't remember the socket size. Be careful not to pull bearing assembly apart (serviced as a unit) as you take it out (may be stuck, loosen by pounding on the bolts from the back. Once this is out pull the axleshaft gently out to keep from damaging the oil seal at the pumpkin. Take off the outer part of the axle (with the ball joints). They are tapered shafts and require pounding or pressing. Install same as removal. Use antisieze compound on d*** near everything!

 

[PUMPERDUDE]

Change your front u-joints if they have play in them while your at it. if not you'll have to pull the axels again later and chance trashing the seals

 

[Briar Hopper]

$600 for all four is CHEAP ! Dealer wants $217 each for the same crappy ball joints that won't last any longer than what's on there now.

No aftermarket ball joints for a 2001 truck are yet available from Moog, or NAPA, though I did locate an off-brand down in Texas that sells for $132 each.

You didn't say what year your truck is? Everything from the steering gear box to ball joints is different from a '99, and an '00.

Been putting off getting my front end work done. It's out of warranty.

 

[Lynn_Schwartz]

Had my ball joints replaced last month upper, lower, left and right (now have a grease fitting for the uppers etc). Price was $671 complete. Give you a range for retail. Regards, Lynn