my 97 has some vibration and slop in the front end and a loud clunking noise when hitting a pot hole on the right side. i have decided to rebuild the front end to help correct this. I am gonna buy the parts myself and have my local shop install them.

So far i have on the list of stuff to purchase:

New track bar
shocks ( any reccomendations?)
ball joints
steering stabilizer shock

My question is what am i leaving out ? And what else do you all reccomend I do to get a smooth and solid ride and a sharp steering?

thank you
dave

 

You should also do the half shaft u-joints.

 

As for the clunk, it could be loose shocks, or loose control arms.

I'd also throw a DSS on there.

http://www.solidsteel.ca/Products.htm

(I think that's the latest web site?)

If you're replacing the trac bar, you should also look into the kit they sell to utilize the 3rd gen tracbar.


phox

 

I am impressed with the DSS kit but it says I have to supply my own 3rd gen trackbar? Where can i get one of these 3rd gen trackbars for a reasonable price?
Thank you
dave

 

Check out your front swaybar links. Give the swaybar a shake at each end and look for movement in the ball and socket.

 

The Dealership is the only place I know of to get one.

For now, perhaps it will be an aftermarket item after not too long.

You can throw "reasonable price" out the window until there is some competition.


phox

 

It's only two bolts, just look for a 3rd gen 4X4 in a dark parking lot.

 

Walmart works great for that.

While your at it, get a replacement tailgate as well.

We all know, that's where the first big dent happens


phox

 

 

You should try a luke's link for your stock track bar. That would save you some money.

 

here is the new address for solid steel,i highly recomend the steering stabilizer and the 03 track bar kits if you are looking for better steering and handling.you also might want to check your sector shaft on the steering gear box for play and replace it while your at it.these three things made a huge difference on my truck,its all now..,i payed 180.00 for my 03 bar at the dealer.


www.solidsteel.biz

 

I got my 3rd gen Track bar bracket and track bar from "Rip" in Oregon. He will discount the track bar if you buy it with the bracket. Best price I could find.

Sorry I can't find his web page.

 

www.sourceautomotive.biz