ok, this blazer has 136,000 miles. runs great (need a lil 4x4 tlc) but front suspension is shot apparently. took it to reputable mechanic, and he says the reason its pulling so hard to the left is because:

1. needs upper control arm bushings

2. needs pitman arm

3 needs idler arm

4. needs upper ball joint

5. needs lower ball joint


all this needs to be done before an alignment can be done correctly.

total price for parts and labor: $1,820.59

i dont think so tim. so ive read about the installation process which i will do myself. problem is, i will have to do it 1 part a week. so with you folks experience, regarding vehicle integrity, what order should i do them in?

thx in advance

 

Hey! First-off $1800 is WAY to much for this job! As you are already aware...
But,if I was to do this myself: you will need to do the bushings and the ball joints at the same time(it will save you tearing the hubs off twice) and ball joints are simple to install when the control arms are on your bench! You didn't mention lower bushings but I would do them now anyway! I have never seen (nor personally heard of either) an idler or pitman failing catastrophically,but it COULD happen,so I'd do the idler first and then the pitman. I see you mentioned a left pull and did not pluralize ball joints,take my advice:do it all,both sides! Use quality parts and keep 'em greased and you have another 100K that you wont have to worry about these components! Good luck! step66

 

thank you very much sir. yes i will be replacing it all. appreciate the quik reply also. helluva forum here with massive amounts of info.

 

its a good rule of thumb as they say, to replace all ball joints together. and make sure they have zerk fittings, and pointed in the right direction to get a grease gun on it.

 

yes i will watch the direction of the zerks for sure. thank you.