haultruck

Hey guys, I'm getting a game plan together for my truck this spring. Rebuilding rear diff, freshening up rear leaves with a little bit of lift while I'm at it, rebuilding front end, and also lifting it. The general consensus is that moog ball joints are far superior to others, so I will definitely be using those. I'm just wondering if I could, or "should" try to save money on other parts such as control arm bushings, tie rod ends ect. Also what are your opinions on leaf bushings for the rear? Thanks guys.

Montana2x2

I never take a chance with steering, suspension or brakes. I buy the best I can afford.

haultruck

Yes sir, I totally agree. I'm just a little overwhelmed right now. $1000 into rear diff parts, need about $1000 worth of tires, and my projects stated above will be about another $1000. Still cheaper than a new truck I suppose.

jerseybud

Dana spicer were OEM ball joints and I still feel those are better than Moog, just hard to find.
Tie rods are toss up- I find some NOS ones of ebay sometimes and use those. Raybestos professional grade seems to be OK. Ac Delco used to OK, but only the professional line is any good now and their mark-ups are getting borderline.
Spring bushings - I've had good luck with the ac delco or raybestos professional, which is usually a harris silentbloc (not always).

haultruck

Thanks for replies. I'm just over thinking stuff. I'll go ahead and shell out the money for quality stuff. I'm always amazed at how much money a new work truck is when I do a little research. About $5000 would make my truck good to go for years. That's only one year of payments on a newer used rig that might need the same stuff in the meantime. Think I'll go out and give her a pat on the dash and say I'm sorry. Thanks.

Montana2x2

Thats how I look at it, $1000 is only 2-3 payments on a new truck, then add on increased insurance and registration and it makes these old truck a good deal.