I have a 1992 D150 with over 193,000 miles onit. The front end of the truck "wonders" and pops and crackles when I hit even small bumps. I am fairly mechaniclt inclined but I have never tackled a front end rebuild before. Is this something I can do myself?? Does the noises indicate more than bushings? Please help!

 

Jack the front end up and then have someone turn the wheels while you look around under it. You will probably see where the play is coming from.

 

Thanks. I will do that but I figured since the truck has over 193,000 miles on it I would just go through the whole front end.

 

Well in that case go for it, I would suggest marking the threads on the tie rods, before removing the ends that way you can get somewhat close to original alignment. Other than that there really is nothing to it, you might have to rent a ball joint press.

 

Thanks. Any other reccomendations or suggestions before I start?

 

Have it aligned when you are done and make sure the new parts have provisions to grease them. It will be time consuming but not that big of deal. Last time I posted I forgot you should probably rent or buy (they aren't that expensive) a tie rod/ball joint seperator, if you don't have one already.

 

Do you have a service manual?
You will have to pull some of the parts out before you determine if they are worn bad enough but with that mileage you may need a new control arm or 2.

 

Yea I have a Service Manual. I spoke to the guy who used to own it and he said he had all the bushings replaced at about 120,000 miles but I feel like he was taken for his money. Does anyone have any preferences as to what type of bushings? From what I have read, Urethane seems to be the best out there but where is a good store or website to buy the kind of parts I need without buying junk?? Thanks alot for everyones' help. I was not aware that I needed a ball joint / tie rod separator. It is you guys who make this website useful! Thanks.

 

poly urathane bushings are sometimes squeaky....just so you know.

 

What other types of materials are available? And where is the best place to get them?