Upper ball joints need replaced, what else to do while in the shop? (1 Viewer)

[halbeezy]

What else should I have replaced in the front end while they are in there? Bushings? Things are a little loose in the front end overall.

2000 lx 470
206k
Bone stock

 

[JunkCrzr89]

IF the shop is going to remove the upper control arms to replace the ball joints, then yes, replace the bushings. Other than that, nothing else has to be removed to replace the upper ball joints.

 

[planomateo]

Make sure they replace with quality ball joints, like 555.

 

[halbeezy]

Make sure they replace with quality ball joints, like 555.

Can you link me to those? Are they the from outfitters?

 

[medtro]

IF the shop is going to remove the upper control arms to replace the ball joints, then yes, replace the bushings. Other than that, nothing else has to be removed to replace the upper ball joints.

Lug nuts

 

[JunkCrzr89]

Lug nuts

Wheel center cap, too. Might as well throw the piggy bank at it at that point!

 

[halbeezy]

Can anyone tell me where to get the 555 ball joints?

Is this a job a newbie could do?

 

[MJK]

Cruiser Outfitters.

Yes - no reason not to DIY IMO. Get or borrow or a ball joint press from your local parts store.

If you are lazy or the bushings are shagged you can also buy the whole arm assembly from Mr T. No ball joint press needed.

Or, if you want to go the other way, it is a great time for brakes, bearings, to check drive flanges, tie rod ends and LBJs. But, that is a much bigger job. Still very DIYable. Just more time/$.

 

[halbeezy]

Cruiser Outfitters.

Yes - no reason not to DIY IMO. Get or borrow or a ball joint press from your local parts store.

If you are lazy or the bushings are shagged you can also buy the whole arm assembly from Mr T. No ball joint press needed.

Or, if you want to go the other way, it is a great time for brakes, bearings, to check drive flanges, tie rod ends and LBJs. But, that is a much bigger job. Still very DIYable. Just more time/$.

Thanks brother!

I decided to finally use this project as an excuse to start wrenching myself as much as possible. Plus I have 2 sons that I'd like to start showing how to work on cars. I have no idea what I am doing but I think this would be a good project to start together. I decided to replace the upper control arms, lbj, and sway bar links. Obviously not all at the same time. . Going to source everything from rockauto.

 

[MJK]

I'm with you all the way up until you get to Rockauto. Nothing wrong with them as a reseller, but just be careful what you put in your truck or you'll be doing it again soon.

Also, anything in that hub area is best done all at the same time. Read this thread:

Lower Ball Joint Pro Tip

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