[JBOB4134]

Hi there, Can anyone recommend any literature or does anyone have any advice on replacing ball joints on a 95 ford f-150 4x4. I've never done these and I need to do them myself since I got a quote from a mechanic around $800 for all 4 ball joints, both u-joints, and both hub locks. I don't have 800 bucks so if anyone can help I sure would be grateful. I did rent a press tool but I'm not sure if there are any other tools,other than the ordinary, that I should rent. HELP!! PLEASE!! JSP

[justold]

Your on the right track ,pop the axels out and do it. Pay a lot of attention to making sure the axel tubes are clean.

[Triaged]

Go to www.autozone.com and look up the repair info. They don't have all the older stuff but something newer like your ford should be up there. If you have the money just buy a manual...it will save you a lot of hassle in the long run.

You will need a spindle nut socket (round tube with 4 prongs). I don't think you need anything special to adjust the ball joint preload (you do on the older solid axle stuff).

Don't use cheap ball joints. Perfect Circle and Moog are good stuff. If you are going to do the u-joints the ONLY part you want to use is Spicer 5-760x (assuming you actually use the 4wd...if you only use it in the snow a few times a year buy whatever you want). If you are going to do the rest you might as well replace the outer axle seals and bearings (part # BK1), the wheel seals, and repack the bearings.

FWIW I think $800 is a good price for all that work.

Searching on google for TTB (Twin Traction Beam or Twin Torque Beam I don't remember) with something like ball-joint how-to you will also come up with some good info like this
http://therangerstation.com/tech_lib...allJoints.html

[chieftain]

There is a socket also that screws onto the spindle hub that works with a slide hammer. That hub piece has to be removed to get the axles out. Otherwise without it it's a PITA to get off.

[Chopt 48]

If you can, find a factory shop manual written specifically for that model of truck.
Some times you can find one on ebay or though a search engine. They usually run somewhere around 20 to 30 bucks an are well worth the cost.
They have far more detailed instructions than the manuals you find at the parts stores or regular book stores.

The other guys gave pretty good advice, buy the quality parts. Also buy, rent or borrow any special tool that you need. The job will go faster and you will turn out a better job in the end.

[JBOB4134]

Thanks guys for all your advice. I think I'm on the right track. Now I just have to get it done! JSP

[ernkazern]

Be very careful when you take the hubs apart to be sure everything goes back together the same way. Some guys like to use their digital camera to take pictures as they go along. Don't forget a good torque wrench for reassembly.