Ball joints and dust seals?

[crazypj]

Hi Folks, I'm sort of new. ( haven't posted for about 18months or more)
Have 2004 Mazda B2300. (Ranger with a different bed and badge)
Changed oil last week and noticed the lower ball joint dust seals had completely failed.
The inner edge of passenger side front tyre is also well worn
Is only got 47,500 miles and is not 4 yrs old.
Is this normal?
I've had cars 20~30 yrs old which didn't have rotted out rubber seals like this.
What are the best replacement ball joints to get?
Thanks in advance,
PJ

 

[bluovaldude]

Normal really is a term throw around any more... But it really depends on you driving style and conditions you drive in... Salt sand and cold yeah it will work it wonders on the thin rubber seals.

As for replacements I would go with a good set of MOOG ball joint. Have not heard anything bad about them and I know alot of the bagged gys like to use them for their strength too.

But if you have lower joints I would also check the upper ones and also other things in the suspension for wear and tear, Just incase there some other abnormal wear causing the balljoints to go bad.

 

[Simple_serf]

Yeah, Balljoints on the newer trucks suck, as do the brakes on the 98-99 years.

Go with the Moogs, I think they are greaseable. Try to get greasable uppers too. I usually hit mine with grease every other oil change.

If you are in the salt belt, like me, then yeah, the newer rubber just doesn't hold up too well.

 

[crazypj]

Thanks guys,
I'm in Florida (Orlando area) so it isn't the salt and usually it isn't too cold.
Theres a guy in class who seems to have some experience with Rangers and said he had to replace ball joints about once a year (lived on a dirt road)
PJ

 

[Big Time]

AH-HA! I'm pretty sure the issue is with the stock ball joints and that the greaseable Moogs will keep you from having to replace them so often.