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Replacing steering linkage. What else should I replace?

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Old 05-16-2021 | 11:42 AM
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Default Replacing steering linkage. What else should I replace?

Next week I'll be replacing shocks, as well as the steering linkage on my 99 1500 4wd. A kit containing inner and outer tie rods, tie rod adjusting sleeves, upper and lower ball joints, sway bar links, and the track bar will arrive today or tomorrow. Should I replace the control arms and stabilizer shock, also? Anything else that should be replaced while I'm under the truck?
 
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Old 05-16-2021 | 11:58 AM
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Originally Posted by 99CubbyBlue1500
Next week I'll be replacing shocks, as well as the steering linkage on my 99 1500 4wd. A kit containing inner and outer tie rods, tie rod adjusting sleeves, upper and lower ball joints, sway bar links, and the track bar will arrive today or tomorrow. Should I replace the control arms and stabilizer shock, also? Anything else that should be replaced while I'm under the truck?
Steering stab probably not a bad idea. Check steering box for leaks. I can't recall if these get a rag joint or u-joint in the steering shaft? but I'd inspect that.

Control arms, I'd visually inspect the bushings but I wouldn't just throw parts at it
 
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Old 05-16-2021 | 12:00 PM
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Lot of folks remove the stabilizer, and leave it off..... Check the bushings in the control arms, if those are ok, just leave 'em. Check the u-joints on the front axle as well.
 
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Old 05-16-2021 | 03:51 PM
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In my experience, you'd be better off not touching anything. However, if you must, I recommend replacing everything: ball joints, control arms or bushings, linkage, steering gear, pump, brakes, bearings, ujoints, steering shaft, tires and do a very good alignment. Why? Because once you replace one thing, it will unveil parts that are also worn out. Then you'll replace that and something else pops up. Over and over and over. And take it to a good shop to bleed the power steering and do the alignment or you'll never get it bled properly.

Yeah, I'm bitter. I haven't had good steering since 2008 when the first part was replaced and chased my tail replacing everything one at a time for the past 13 years. If you can rather afford a new truck, that's what I would do. Or drive it off a cliff. Well, no, just push it. Don't hurt yourself.
 




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