1999 Ford Expedition Ball Joints and Tire Rods. How importa

WALLACEUSAF

MEMBER
1999 FORD EXPEDITION
V8
2WD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

My 1999 Ford Expedition was recently in an accient. The front right part of the bumper was pushed in and the head light was busted. I pulled the bumper out on my own so it wouldn't puncture the tire when I made a turn. When it got to the shop the mechanic said that my balls joints and tire rods were going bad and needed replaced. I guess what I am asking is if it is ok to still drive my truck for a little while, so I can get to work and to a couple more repair shops to see how much it will cost to fix the problem. My truck is in great shape for a 99' and only has about 120,000 miles on it. I have never missed an oil change an have treated it lie it was my child. In closing, how worried should I be about these problems; and Is this something that I could fix on my own if I got a repair manual/book? Thank You for taking your time to answer my question. I will be a happy soldier if I get a prompt response!

Thank You,
A1C Kyle Wallace
U.S.A.F.
28 MAY 09

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Both can be dangerous if they are bad enough. The tie rods are what actually turn the tires for you. If they come apart, you will only have control over one of the tires. The other will go in any direction it wants. As far as the ball joints, they can cause the wheel to buckle if they come apart, so as I said, either or can be dangerous if they are bad enough.

As far as replacing them yourself, the tie rids are not that hard to do. However, you need to have the vehicle aligned after replacement unless you get it back to the exact same spot it was originally in. As far as the ball joints, that is a big job. Most of the front end needs taken apart to replace them. If you have no experience, I would recommend have it done by a professional. However, if you have some mechanical ability and can get your hands on a good repair manual, you should be able to do it.

Let me know if you have other questions.

Joe