A quick (and hopefully easy) question - are the ball joint ends for the center link replacable? Or do I have to buy a entire center link?

Thanks!

 

the whole link is replaced.............

 

Ah, ok. So I MUST buy a new link- there is no way the old one can be repaired?

 

YES the entire link must be replaced it cannot be rebuilt. Go with a MOOG replacement. You will need someone to install it for you also so that's another cost, it doesn't install like other typical center links with splinded shafts, must be pressed on.

 

Pressed on, I don't think so. Just have to unhook the idler arm, pitman arm, and both inner tie-rods from the centerlink to remove. Reverse to install. It's a good time to replace the idler arm if it's a little loose.

 

maybe on the older models the idler arm shaft is splined but on my 91' the shaft was smooth.

 

It's not hard at all, the most difficult thing being seperating the joints. Remove the tie rod ends firse then the pitman and idler arms, It will fall off. you can find forks for this cheap, just be carefull not t mangle the dust covers on the tie rods. When tightening the bolts down you may need to use a pry bar to push the studs in their holes to keep them from spinning while you tighten them. It would be a good idea to get it aligned too, since it wll probably be a bit off since you removed the slop, but not absolutely necessary if it's not acting wierd or pulling.