So yea.. pulling into my driveway today, this happened. I'm thinking collapsed strut. I've been getting some intermittent squeaking the last few months, but nothing to suggest a problem. Most mechanics have just "lubed" the chassis points in response to it. Anyone else have any input?

 

Well something broke, you don't have strut's, a shock bolt may have popped or a ball joint. It surely sucks but your going to have to clear the snow, jack it up and see what's busted. Very good chance it will be obvious.

 

just talked with the tow driver. lower ball joint sheared in half at the stud. Lower control arm is laying on the pavement, tire is now at a 45 degree angle lol. Combination of the cold, plus the bad joint (ive been looking at replacing them, but have not had time) finally did it in. So tomorrow i get to freeze my *** off with doing that tomorrow. Thanks Spitty

 

couldnt have happened in a better place. . just a heads up those are rivited in so plan on being out there for a little while

 

I was going to say ball joint.. but looks like that was figured out..
Like already said, could not have been at a better place, Could have been much worse and it happen going down the road.

 

Okey Dokey , come back with some pic's if you need a hand......

 

Hey guys, quick update. New ball joint is installed and doing well. Took her for a 3 mile drive today, feels a ton better. Turns out the ball joint split right in half at the knuckle. Lower half was still in the control arm (as you can see from the pics) and the upper half was still bolted into place. Was a really simple fix considering the elements (freezing rain and drizzle today). So other than a soaked pair of jeans, good gloves, and a hurting back everything got done. Enjoy the pics of the destruction lol.

 

I would say you got your money's worth out of those ball joints! LOL I had something similar happen in my '73. except the lower control arm tore out where the bushing was supposed to be. Complete collapse of the left front, and a tow home! Glad you weren't doing 60 on the highway when it happened, and glad it's fixed!

Edit: did you do just that side or both? If one's that bad, you can bet the other isn't too far behind it!

 

I hear ya. I'm waiting until I get paid again and ordering the other and i'll wait until the weather clears up some. But the passenger side is next on my list along with tires in a month. Also, anyone know where we can find those Diamond edition push-bars? Ive seen threads but no answers. GMC direct maybe?

 

I inspected the passenger side ball joint and found it to have zero play whatsoever. Fully packed with grease, and everything in tact. At this point I'm thinking the driver side failure can be attributed to a faulty part. Thanks for your help guys!