2001 Ford Explorer Ball Joints

FORD EXPLORER
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XJETMECH
  • MEMBER
  • 12 POSTS
Ford Explorer 2001 77,000 mi.

I recently bought this car and find that there are no grease fittings on anything, nor are there any rubber plugs where the fittings could go. I've considered drilling, tapping and installing fittings, but am concerned about where tha shavings would go. Please comment. I understand that the ball joints are not replacable on this model and that whole control arm has to be changed. Is there any way around that?
Mar 13, 2006 at 7:20 AM
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PEPPERMRJ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,158 POSTS
Get an aftermarket arm with replaceable ball joints. Doubt if shavings would fall in.

Good luck and let us know. :)
Mar 14, 2006 at 12:06 PM
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Suggested Repair

Install an aftermarket control arm with replaceable ball joints rather than trying to service the original non-replaceable joints.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 2001 Ford Explorer with 77,000 miles found no grease fittings or plugs and asked about drilling and tapping fittings, including where metal shavings would go. They also noted the ball joints are not separately replaceable and asked if the whole control arm must be changed. The expert recommended an aftermarket control arm with replaceable ball joints and doubted shavings would fall into the joint.

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