Have a '98 Expedition?

Question

I am told by some that to replace ball joints on '98 Expedition, you
must replace the lower control arm. All of the auto parts stores I
have contacted sell ball joints as a replacement part, without the
control arm. Who has information about this? Please help.

Answer 1

Ball joints on a 98 can be replaced without the the controll arms being replaced, take yourtime and research this but I have done it befor...its not any fun but doable.

Answer 2

On some Ford's, the way the upper ball joint is made on the upper control arm, you have to replace the whole arm to replace the ball joint (mainly Explorers/rangers) .. I can't remember if the upper arms are like that on a Expedition..... I think 2003 model year up it's like that, not your old school (based on the 1997-04 heritage (06 in mexico) f-150... Basically if the upper arm is more like a medal rod than an arm (looks way different than the bottom).. you have to replace the arm...

Answer 3

It's not as bad as some other makes are. If you are competent you can do this BUT be careful when using your hammer to persuade the old joints to come out - I have seen a few control arms lose a piece of material or get a bit mushroomed at the ball joint bosses by excessive and repeated hits. I've done oa few of these without issue.

PS The uppers have been done by a few other technicians I know but it's a big pain to figure out which joint you need since they aren't listed as a separate part from the control arm.

Answer 4

You have to replace the upper control arms for the upper ball joints, the lower arm comes either way

Answer 5

you do nott have to replace the control arm to replace the ball joints, this job will give you total hell, so if you have no patients.... take it in!