big-o

I have a 1997 F-150 Lariat 4 wheel drive truck. I was at a shop having the tires replaced and the guy showed me that my upper ball joints were shot. I have found several utube videos showing me how to do the job myself which looks straight forward. Okay, so I want to order these items up and I'm thinking about doing the uppers and lowers myself or have a shop do the job. Should I use the Ford products or are after market ball joint guts okay to buy/use. Is one aftermarket product better than the others? Just looking for some good info from those who have already done this.

RLXXI

How long did the originals last? Ford replacements will likely last as long. I've used TRW and Moog in the past but now they build most of their parts in China and quality has suffered as a result, if you don't go back oem then hit Napa, I think they still make their parts in the usa but ask to make sure.


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big-o

The originals lasted for about 90k miles. The truck doesn't get beat on at all and is treated well, ie squeaky clean in and out and no rust underneath at all.

alsatropine

iTrader: (2)

OEM or Moog.. plus with the Moog you get a llt guarantee... I have replaced all mine with Moog and haven't had an issue yet....... knock on wood..

big-o

Great! I have heard of Moog products and I need to figure out what order numbers I need to do the job. Thanks.

RLXXI

Gonna need a ball joint press as well. Otherwise they can be a bitch to change.

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big-o

Ordered up the press and remover. Figured what the hell, I saved a pile of $ doing this myself, I can splurge and get the tools for another 70-80 bucks. I prefer to do my own work anyway, don't trust anyone else doing a job that will kill me if not done right. Plus I enjoy saving the $. Disabled vets don't rake in the big bucks, haven't been able to work for a few years and I wanna see what I can do.

BensKingRanch

You can rent a press from auto zone or o'riellys. You pay a deposit, and get a full refund when it's returned. I like anything that costs FREE dollars and 0 cents!

big-o

Where I live, I'm 30 miles from anywhere.

BensKingRanch

Well, in that case... #1. I'm jealous, I'd enjoy living that far out. #2. I guess it's a good excuse for buying a new tool. *thumbs up*