Does anybody out there know of any aftermarket front end parts such as ball joints for an 03 3500. I have rebuilt my dad's '97 front end 4 times now. I only got 74000 out of mine, which I think is ridiciouls. I never take my truck down any rough roads, I even drive 5mph down my drive way. All I have found so far is that spicer makes ball joints for my truck, but I dont want to have to mess with these things again for atleast another 100000 miles if I can help it.

 

I just put mine in the shop today for all 4. I only have 53000 mi. the roads here suck, plus I have a 300LB bumper sittin on the front end. That may have something to do with it. I have only been able to find them from the dealer. cost $452 forthe parts. I have never replaced them before, so I will eat the labor for another $400

 

There has to be after market support for these?

 

Spicer carries them supposedly but I have yet to find an aftermarket ball joint or even a component that would change the ball joint or or replace it with another ball joint

 

I have ordered a set of spicer joints for it, but Im not sure if they will work, Ill let u know if they fit and give u the part nums if they work

 

how long are they supposed to last? I think 53000 is a little early.

 

I have no idea, but Im with you. My dad has a 97 3500 and he treats it like total crap. His original ball joints lasted well over 100000, but 50 is about right for the Napa brand he keeps replacing them with. Ive got my joints, but I havent found time to put them in, they look the same, except the spicer joints are greasable, and thats always a good thing

 

I just put a set of Moog greasable ball joints in. Suppose to be lifetime.

Pete

 

Of all the things to be going out, wheel bearings and ball joints. You would think that for as many years they have been building trucks they would at least have these basic items perfected. D C should be ashamed of them selves and whoever signed off on these should be fired.

 

Yes, its very sad. I just had my passenger side hub assembly was just replaced last week with only 28000 on it... and I think the drivers side is going to go the same route before the 36000 warranty is up too....

Soooo annoying...

Mike