If they're talking about the upper control arm, it would be easier to
replace the arm as they come "loaded" (new bushings and ball joints). If
it's the lower control arm...just replace them with aftermarket ball joints.
As for TSB's on them, I haven't found it yet but we replace the factory
balljoints by removing the factory rivets and installing a new assembly.
Just replace the heads...it won't hurt anything.
- Bernd
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-dakota-truck@bent.twistedbits.net
[mailto:owner-dakota-truck@bent.twistedbits.net] On Behalf Of Gary Hedlin
Sent: Sunday, July 18, 2004 2:40 AM
To: dakota-truck-moderator@bent.twistedbits.net
Subject: DML: Recommendation Needed
Ok DML, I need some guidance, on 2 issues:
1. I got confirmation today that my ball joints are officially shot. When
I asked my guy for an estimate, he gave me an insane number to do the job,
stating the entire control arm needed replacing. He even showed me on his
estimator software where they stated it. But I know this is not right, so
I'm wondering if there is a TSB out there detailing how the job should be
done. I know the mechanic I use is a decent guy, but I'm hoping having a
hard copy of a TSB would aid matters.
2. Lately the truck has been consuming a lot of oil, and after checking the
belly pan, I had my guy do a leak down test where he found some of my valve
seals were leaking. So I was prepared to have him install a fresh set of
heads, but my guy said it would be a bad idea with the amount of miles I
have. I can understand the fact that the new heads would cause more
pressure, but is there another way I can fix this problem without resorting
to a full blown rebuild?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!!
-- Gary Hedlin www.garyhedlin.com (slowly getting there)
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