Any JEEP machanics out there?

[ckusnierek]

So my 1997 Grand Cherokee needs upper and lower ball joints. Since I'm in there I'll probally replace the axles shafts (clicking), bearing hubs (not sure if the growl is bearings or ball joints/alingment), and stabilizer links(bushings look worn). This SUV has 140,000 miles on it.

Any tips or suggestions before I begin would be appreciated!

BTW I am a machinist and am very mechanically inclined, just never done ball joints before.

Also This has U-joint axles which are 250.00 ea to replace. I can put CV axles in for about 55 ea. does it make any difference.

[Doug1]

If you havent got one already, get a good manual, shouldn't be too hard with the right tools, and CV will be better if you can swap em

[Scruffys Catch]

Do you take it off road?

[ckusnierek]

No off road, and I already have the manual

[Loverotties]

Buy the ball joint removing fork.Makes it much easyer.

[ckusnierek]

I can rent (free w/ deposit) all the tool I need from autozone. That actually have a ball joint press and a fork for removing the tie rod ends.

Now I'm thinking about taking it to the shop. Found one that will do it for $160 labor + parts. Thats labor for just the joints and there wont be any labor for the new parts (axles, bearings, tie rod ends ect.) because they have to take all those off anyway. I think its a pretty sweet deal so I'm taking it in on thursday for a written quote and probally just get it done.

[ScruffyRubicon]

Originally Posted by ckusnierek

I can rent (free w/ deposit) all the tool I need from autozone. That actually have a ball joint press and a fork for removing the tie rod ends.

Now I'm thinking about taking it to the shop. Found one that will do it for $160 labor + parts. Thats labor for just the joints and there wont be any labor for the new parts (axles, bearings, tie rod ends ect.) because they have to take all those off anyway. I think its a pretty sweet deal so I'm taking it in on thursday for a written quote and probally just get it done.

Not a bad deal! I quit working on mine for the most part. You'll save the skin on your knuckles and your time.

[ScruffyRubicon]

CV would be a good choice provided you don't take it off road. I know several people that have done that only to have a failure because they got water, dirt and grime in the CV.