96 2500 hd needs help!

[boat49]

Two questions. 1) My driver door handle broke. I have a replacement for it, how do i get the door panel off, and is it possible without breaking the plastic things? 2) I drive alot off road and the front end is starting to feel loose and it shakes when I slow down. I have purchased a new bushing kit for the front end that comes with upper and lower ball joints, tie rod ends and an idler arm. I'm pretty good at replacing things, meaning if I take it apart I can usually get it back together. Is this something I can do myself or should I take it to a mechanic? All help is very much appreciated.....Thanks

[MagicRat]

Most door panels just pry off. Be sure to remove the window winders, if non power, and unscrew all the trim pieces etc. The plastic plugs can be reused, but its easy to get new ones from a dealer.

The front end components require special tools to replace, such as pickle forks for the tie rod ends and a ball joint press for the joints.
It can be difficult and dangerous to do on your own and is definitely dangerous if you have no experience.
Don't bother to learn on the vital steering and suspension of your truck. If you make a mistake you can have a crash and kill yourself and others.

[boat49]

Thanks for the info. I tried prying it off but was afraid something would break. I'm going to give it another try and see what happens.
On the front end work, I think I'm going to agree with you! After reading in the manual I saw where special tools would be needed, and the part about the crashing and killing made alot of sense. I think I will be safe and take it to a mechanic. Thanks again

[texmex]

get pitman arm inspected asap

[big dwag]

you can buy a tool that will take off the door panel without damaging the plastic snaps.