Hello all,

I have a 2003 XLT single cab with 157,xxx miles on it. I have decided that this will be my new project and have replaced a multitude of things already, my question is what should be replaced as far as suspension?I have steering wheel vibration (brief understatement lol) that occurs only within 55-65 mph, probably just need the tires balanced right? Everything looks to be OEM and worn out, I plan to either lift or lower next year along with new paint so I would like to replace anything and everything while I am tearing it down.

 

Check the rear shackles. They are notorious for rusting out. New shocks? Check rear axle seals for leaks. Might be time for new o2 sensors and pcv valve.

 

Should I consider tierods and ball joints?

 

I haven’t done mine on my 2010 XLT. I’m just thinking of doing them when the rubbers ripped or show real wear.

 

Is your steering tight? Mine is very loose and has a lot of play in it, I figure its time for new hubs along with a brake job. Just trying to knock everything out before getting into the bigger jobs lol

 

If you’re loose then it’s the big casino. Upper and lower arms with ball joints, linkage, and tie rod ends. Check the steering linkage too. Rockauto.com is your friend. There’s 5% discount codes out there too.

 

Thank you! Is there certain brands that I should be shooting for? I have never “wrenched” an older truck only new ones, this is a whole new ball game for me!

 

All things equal go with motorcraft. Otherwise whichever has best combo of price and warranty. Some of the manufacturers have complete kits which can be helpful. Just watch the different shipping points with rockauto as they can run up the tab.