1998 Ford Ranger Ball joints

JACK A. DONALD

MEMBER
1998 FORD RANGER
4 CYL
2WD
MANUAL
76,000 MILES

The rubber boots on the upper and lower ball joints on both sides of my Ranger are rotted and split open. There appears to be little or no grease left. I would like to replace them myself. I have very good mechanical aptitude and have hand and air tools, as well as a good place to work where I can support the front end on blocking and jack stands.

1. Is there any substantial reason for not doing this myself? I realize that I would need to have a professional alignment done.
2. What specialty tools are required? I may have access to press-in tools.
3. Parts sources show the upper ball joints with and without the upper control arm included. Is it worth it to buy the complete assemblies?
4. Can you recommend a shop manual that will provide good instructions specific to the '98 Ranger?
5. I am not familiar with the replacement parts brand names. Are there any that are recommended or that should be avoided?
6. Is this job likely to require the use of really bad language?

I will be most grateful for any assistance. Jack

1 Reply

MIKE H R

MECHANIC
3,094 POSTS

You can do the job yourself as long as you have the correct tools and some expiernce. Make sure the front of the truck is supported when you remove the front wheels. You will need a ball joibnt press and a removal tool for the tie rods. There is a clip that holds the ball joints that has to be removed before pressing out the ball joints. The chiltons manual for ford ranger / bronco. Should help you through the process. Make sure the manual covers the 1998 model.