I've searched and read many posts and threads and still have a few questions about replacing ball joints. 2005 Ram 1500 2wd, 112,000 miles.

Driver's side lower ball joint is shot so I figured that I need to replace lowers on both sides. Would I be stupid to not replace the upper contro arms while I'm in there? They look fine. Tie rod ends? Also look fine. Original shocks?
Where do I stop?

I'm trying to minimize my out of pocket but don't want to be tearing the front end apart again in 6 months. Is it even possible to replace the lowers without pulling off the knuckle.

Thanks!!
Beau

 

I would do uppers and new shocks at a minium. If you can do it all. You will need an alignment as well. 2 yrs ago when I did mine parts were $400 for everything.

 

Did mine last year. Do them all or you'll likely be tearing the front end apart again soon.

If you have the money, get some of the better replacements, too, so you may never have to do it again.

 

Its not necessary to do the uppers when doing the lowers but its easier to do them when you're doing the lowers. If the shocks are original at 112k then they are almost twice the suggested mileage by most manufacturers(60k). There is no reason to replace a tie rod end unless it has play in it. The best way to check for play is with a dry park check, with the engine off and steering wheel unlocked, have someone rock the wheel back and forth steadily while you watch the tie rod ends and check for movement. If they seem to slide sideways or "pop" then theyre in need of replacement. If not, its wasted money.