Supension overhaul

[gbsb]

I had a total knee replacement on my right knee. So not being able to drive for a few weeks it seemed like a good time to have some work done on the T bird. Even though the car drove fine with no tire wear I knew at 152,000 miles it was well worn. The a/c compressor was leaking oil, just in need of attention. There is a good hotrod shop near hear that takes care of us old car guys. Took it in complete rebuild, ball joints, upper and lower a frames front and back, tie rods. Now the kicker , my knee is all wrapped up and I am doing PT. getting along great but can't drive the car to enjoy the new ride. A few more weeks and I can take it for a cruise. Planning on doing the Natchez Trace in march so just patience I guess.

[007Cruiser]

Heal quickly George! Sounds like you fixed your suspension too!

[wcoates]

Heal quickly George! Sounds like you fixed your suspension too!

get well quickly George. That’s why a bunch of us old guys don’t drive stick-em-shift any more. The left knee just doesn’t hold up. Give us an update on the Natches Trace Cruise in March.

[BillyL]

What did the suspension work cost, if you do not mind sharing? I am facing the same issue. Car drives great, but after 16 years all the rudder boots have dry rotted and split.

[gbsb]

after replacing all parts with new a frames(bushings unavailable) , new a/c compressor and all that goes with that. $3882.00. The shop said he could have been a little cheaper but preferred to use upgraded parts and not the cheapest he could find. Use quality and it will last longer. fairly expensive but can't replace the car for that price and now I know it is good to go anywhere. 18 years old 152000 miles , no complaints.

[BillyL]

Thanks for sharing. I have already replaced the a/c components, So only looking at the suspension work at this time.

[428PI]

I think I've mentioned this before. I replaced my front upper and lower control arms because one upper arm bushing was getting loose and the lower's made noise below 50 degrees. I did the work my self, bought parts as a kit off ebay I believe. Well, one lower arm bushing is making noise all the time so I spray it with silicone and it'll be gone for 500 miles or so. I did finally replace the front and rear struts. That made the most difference in feel and noise (knocking noises when cold). I personally wouldn't worry about split boots on ball joints, etc. if you tend to only to drive in dry conditions like I do. What you replace it with may be inferior to factory parts and factory parts are so expensive.

[BLACK BEAUTY]

George you're an inspiration..

after replacing all parts with new a frames(bushings unavailable) , new a/c compressor and all that goes with that. $3882.00. The shop said he could have been a little cheaper but preferred to use upgraded parts and not the cheapest he could find. Use quality and it will last longer. fairly expensive but can't replace the car for that price and now I know it is good to go anywhere. 18 years old 152000 miles , no complaints.

[BillyL]

Keith, you are correct we did have this discussion on the forum last year. At that time I agreed with your opinion to wait until a problem would cause me to address the issue. I have noticed small black spots on the garage floor under the wheel areas. I am pretty sure the cause is dried grease particles dropping from the sway bar joints as those boots are in the worst condition. Now more an annoyance than a problem, but will not get better. I think I will do the repairs for peace of mind now rather than postpone.

[gbsb]

Thanks for sharing. I have already replaced the a/c components, So only looking at the suspension work at this time.

The a/c work was $900.00 so the rest was suspension parts.

[gbsb]

I was a rolling stock mechanic my whole career. meaning I worked on every thing from forklifts to semi trucks, diesel, gas , electric. Hydraulics , suspension, transmission you name it. So here I am 68 years old , retired with tons of knowledge to do every thing I need to do. My knees give out on me, Had left one replaced last year and Right on done 2 weeks ago. Don't let no one tell you it is a simple operation. Can not get down on ground to do any work, Dr said in 2 years should be able to get down with some padding. Oh well car is fixed and about 2 more weeks I should be released to drive. It sure does hurt to pay someone for something you have done all your life. Long live the Bird.