1997 Ford Expedition Pitarm to be replaced by Ford dealer

NOTSODUMBBLONDE

MEMBER
1997 FORD EXPEDITION

Suspension problem
1997 Ford Expedition V8 Four Wheel Drive Automatic

Went in for a recall by ford. Ask the mechanic to also check the very back squeeking in the front suspension. They said the pitarm needs to be replaced and I afraid I am being ripped off. They say the labor hours are 4.5 at $105.00 an hour. I have checked with two mechanic shops and they said it should only take 1.6 hours. The dealer is including in those hours an alighnment which they claim to take 2 hours. So pitman arm replacement and alighnment 4.5 hours. ?

2 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,328 POSTS

Hi:
I looked up the labor on the pitman arm. It shows 2.4 hours. It shouldn't take 2 hours for an alignment. I strongly recommend getting a second opinion from a tire shop for the alignment (at least). The factory price for the pitman arm is $108.33.

I don't know where you live, but wow! I can't believe the labor rate. Here (near Pittsburgh) 60 an hour is about average.

If you have other questions, let me know. Also, replacing the pitman arm does not justify an alignment.

Joe