zzBUDD

Okay, we're talking about my 2004 F150 XLT Triton 4.6L Super Crew 2wd

So I was told at my last rebalancing that my lower ball joint, driver side, has alot of play in it. Doesn't surprise me because the steering wheel is pretty damn shakey when I get up to speeds in excess of 65mph. Really want to do the job myself, but my Haynes manual says the lower ball joint and control arm must be replaced as one assembly. However I'm seeing conflicting opinions on similar F150s. Like I'm seeing that on the 2004 4x4's can just have the ball joint replaced without touching the lower control arm. Same with the 2005s'. So bottom line, is that Haynes manual correct?

Also, I'm really unsure as to whether I have the new or old body style, I just don't have an eye for those things. Does it make a difference in doing this repair as far as the part needed?

And what specialized tools would I need? Do I need something to compress any springs or stabilizer struts? Because the Haynes seems pretty vague in this area.

jhelrey

Snap Ring Pliers, Ball Joint Press which you can rent for free at most auto places, and a big hammer. You should own the rest of the tools.

CozyEvergreen

Old body style.

CozyEvergreen

2004 FX4 new body style.

zzBUDD

thanks! Looks like I definitely have the new body style of the 2004. Now, big question. What special tools are required if I replace the whole lower arm... and basically, which is an easier job to do, the whole arm or just the ball joint itself? And why would the manual tell me that I can't just replace the balljoint by itself?

CozyEvergreen

Hmm I have a Chiltons manual and it says the control arm and balljoint must be replaced as a unit which is the exact opposite of what my local suspension shop said. They were going to install moog balljoints on both sides, align and rotate and balance for 400 bucks. Can't be too hard or it wouldn't be that cheap.

kozal01

iTrader: (2)

ive never heard of having to replace the lower control arm but i know the uppers are that way. the lower ball joint presses out of the lower control arm.

zzBUDD

Well i can't thank you all enough. My dad has vast mechanical knowledge and was floored when I read him the section of the Haynes manual that specified that hooplah. Maybe it was a typo. Now I can just order the parts and get him over to my house to help me do it!

CozyEvergreen

Let us know how it goes as I too would like to do it myself verses paying someone else