running4bhs

I am getting ready to replace everything on the front end of my truck because I don’t think it has ever been done and I just rolled over 225000. I plane on replacing upper and lower ball joints and upper and lower control arms on both sides, the track bar, tie rod ends, and sway bar links. Should I have the wheel bearing repacked with grease or just replace those also while I’m at it? Is there anything else you guys can think of while I’m doing this? Thanks in advance for every ones input.

aksparkey01

my 97 has hub assemblys and a would assume that your 96 does also. pita to replace. if i remember right they are anywhere from $400-500 a side depending where you buy them. If i were you i would jack the front end off the ground and see if there is any play in the wheel first. also the nut that outer stub shaft on mine was stuck. it took a 4' 3/4 drive ratchet to get the nut off, but it just tore the threads off the outer axle stub shaft. so worst case add another 200 a side for new stub shaft and u-joint.

walexa

First off, if it were me, I would take the truck to a reputable front end place and get them to check and give you an estimate on what is worn out. Preferably a place you normally do business with, that way when you decide to do the work yourself it's not like you are really sticking it to them by not getting them to do the work. It's probably a safe bet that most of the steering linkage is worn out. If you have the Y-style, you really need to upgrade the the T-style as on the 98 to 02 trucks. The Y-style changes toe as the suspension compresses.......the T-style doesn't. Do some research for part numbers and write-ups on it, if you can't find anything let me know and I will find some links for you.

Second, if you haven't already, don't go back with a stock track bar. Drop the coin on a Thurenfab track bar with weld on bracket. This eliminates a ball joint on the frame end. Another option is the bolt-up kit from DSS that allows you to use an 03 and later track bar.

Rock Auto has the hub assemblies, Timken part # HA597851 for your 1996 4x4 for $138, about 10 cents difference in price between 7500GVW and 8800GVW.

If you do not live where they salt the roads the spindle nut should come off fine. Worst case scenario they are $138 each as well from rock auto. I would also get my ball joints and other front end parts from them as well.

Don't forget that if you order from rock auto that you can always find a promotion code (search the web) for 5% off.

I must sound like an advertisement for RA but I have no affiliation with them, just been really impressed with their prices on most items compared to everybody else.

Waylan

dieselman2300

I always use the promotional code of "turbodiesel" it will get you 5% off.
I order all my parts from rockauto.com. I like it because I can pick and choose manufacturers and normally its cheaper to get parts through them than the parts houses, that even with shipping.