okay, so apparently my front suspension is ****ED! i just replaced all 4 ball joints and need to replace the (idler arm, Pitman arm, and optionally my wheel bearing) do these take "professionals" to install with special equipment, or can i do this at the house? i don't feel like spending (quoted) $590.68 to get it all installed... HELP?

 

the only thing that would need a special tool is the pitman arm and the tool is used to pull it off the gear box it can be rented from most auto parts stores. everything else is basic hand tools.

 

Yeah, nothing there requires a "professional" mechanic. And most somewhat "special" tools can be rented at the parts store if you don't own them already or plan on purchasing them.

And just FYI, nothing there really has anything to do with the "suspension" portion of the front axle either...

 

And what the heck is wrong with your pitman arm (typically do not "wear out")? Do you mean track bar?

 

When you are done, get an alignment.

 

yeah it is all straight forward just need an alingment afterwords...my pitman arm had slack in it the part with the joint that connects to the track bar...mine is 2wd not sure how different the 4x4 is

 

First off, The pitman arm doesnt connect to the track bar. And second off, a 2WD doesnt even have a track bar.

 

it is the bar that goes to my inner tie rods sorry i dont know the exact word for it... the pitman arm and the idler arm both go to this bar.

 

Centerlink on a 2wd

 

You will also need the Ball joint remover tool as well. It also puts the ball joints back in as well. You can get them at Advance. Also get the Mog ball joints. Just did all the same things to my truck x some and mine is 4x4. Look at taking most of the day to do the job.