Front end work

[Noam Zane]

I've a '96 GL with about 75k on it. The front end has become loose, rattly and clunky. This past spring the tie rod ends were replaced and at that time the tech suggested that I replace the sway bar linkage. I declined knowing more extensive work was in the near future.

I'm looking to regain some of that new van control and tightness yet have to consider the cost. The vehicle is only worth maybe $3500 so to put substantial funds into this van requires compromise. I want to run this vehicle another 3-4 years and do budget for repairs.

I know that the strut/coil spring assembly will have to be replaced but what other parts or work should I expect to have done and what related work should I consider having done while the front end is torn down?

[95Win]

Originally Posted by Noam Zane

... I know that the strut/coil spring assembly will have to be replaced but what other parts or work should I expect to have done and what related work should I consider having done while the front end is torn down?

Other possible items could be the lower ball joint/control arm(s), wheel bearings and all the rubber bushings which can deteriate with time as well as miles.

[Davescort97]

If your vehicle bounces more than once after going over a slump or hole in the road you need to replace the front strut assembly. You may have a broken spring. Get the struts replaced and go from there. They are the single most important thing to get a quieter, more tight ride.