i have a 2001 dodge 3500 4x4 I bought and ran it as long as i could as is, but it is finally time that the front end is trashed. I was wondering if anybody had some advice on what parts to buy, where at or if there is any tricks of the trade?thanks

 

Buy everything and be done with it.
Search threads for Ball joints or stud replace and lookee/seee.
Or pay a prefessional to do the job and leave the worring to him.

 

Use Moog's best ball joints and tie rod ends.

Get a good trac bar or trac bar conversion from the aftermarket guys like Thuren or Lukes links.

Have your steering box checked and your stabilizer replaced.

Get a good alignment that is spot on, not "within specs".

Check your steering shaft for excessive play and replace if necessary with a quality aftermarket one.

Prepare to spend upwards to $1800 for this to be done right.

Kurt

 

thanks guys

 

I did my 2002 3500 4x4 last year, ended replacing everything including the steering box.

I used all Moog, but I would recommend using Spicer ball joints since the Moog tend to be tight and took 5k miles before they felt right. I ended up with a Redhead steering box which is about the best rebuild I could find and have been happy with it.

Get a 3/4 drive breaker bar and a cheater, those were the worst ball joints I've ever removed. 1/2 breaker bar is just not strong enough. Tighten the press until it almost breaks then beat on it with a BFH, repeat 20 more times . I ended making a collar out of pipe to press the lowers in since non of the ones in my OTC ball joint kit fit.

 

I just finished mine in like a 2 part job. Best advice I can give to you in really read up on it. Things such has control arm bushings should be looked at as well. Is there a leveling kit, will you put on a leveling or raise the truck up in the future, then look at the different track bars that are out there. Be careful if you pull your passenger outer shaft out of the axle as there is a seal at the CAD and you do not want to mess that up if you can help it. Oh yea.....anti seize everything.....hope this will help ya out. good luck

 

Check out the post on Thuren steering conversion. Perhaps give Don a call. Avoid AGR = overpriced low quality.

 

Yeah, I will second what Junk Man said: You dial Thuren and Don himself answers the phone, or calls you back.

Kurt