Often I try to use factory replacement parts and I think it's a myth that aftermarket parts are going to be better. If you want to upgrade factory parts that you perceive to be poor quality, I think you have to search out specialty parts. For example, there are many different brands of jobber track bar available. The majority of them are modeled exactly after the Dodge one, and have no added benefit. The Moog one however has been redesigned with a much larger ball and socket, and will last longer than the original. For a part such as a water pump, master cylinder, or starter, I have never found an aftermarket product that will match the quality of the factory part.
Just my $.02

 

Many times you can go to Napa or other parts stores and buy the same starter, alternator, etc that you would get from Chrysler for a fraction of the cost. Just remember that the OEMs buy their parts from large mfg companies (we use Leece Nevelle on our combines) and rebrand them as their own. As long as you know what you're looking for (ie WHO is building the parts for the OEM) you can get the same thing only under a different brand. You do have to be careful though, because there is alot of junk at parts stores. Its just like buying Cummins parts through your Dodge dealer. You get the same part for a fraction of the price when you go directly to Cummins since Dodge has to buy it somewhere then mark it up to make a profit.


The track bar though is incredibly dumb to go back and get an OEM. The problem is that just because you're getting an OEM you're not making up for a poor design. Any track bar that uses a ball/socket joint is junk. Thuren is the closest I'd come to trusting one. This is where the aftermarket comes into play in that you can get parts to adapt a 3rd gen track bar which WILL NOT wear out like the 2nd gen ones will. The aftermarket also provides options that the factory didn't (adjustable track bar).

 

What is the scoop with the XRF chassis products? Where do you get them and why should I use them over their competition? I would potentially use them in the front end rebuild.

 

Thuren has a ball and socket too....

There are just as many 3rd gen Dodge 4X4s out there with Death wobble as 2/nd gen. They wear out the bushings ....