getting up there in miles

[Bill]

Anyways the real problem is the clunks, squeaks, creaks, and wild loose steering. Probably needs all new ball joints, tie rods, steering links, bushings, bearings etc...I've already gathered a few of those things, just waiting for time to wrench. Gonna start with the ball joints as I know for sure they are bad.

I've done all that on several Rangers. If you are going to all that work I suggest replacing the springs too. It isn't a difficult job, but it is a good amount of work. The hardest part is the pivot bushings. Since you are in hot, dry California there is a good chance the weather turned those bushings into rocks that are fused to the metal they are pressed into. I had to take one to a shop with a press to get it out.

 

[JohnnyO]

Don't worry about the timing chains, unless they're making noise they're fine.
I got my old '08 Sport Trac 4.0 new, changed oil every 5k since new, at 212,000 miles it lost a head gasket but the timing chains were fine. IF the oil was changed regularly it will be fine.
The 5R55E tranny is a weak spot but at 150k it may have been rebuilt already. I lost mine at 132k despite three fluid changes since new.
Change ALL the fluids, oil, coolant, axles, t-case, trans, air and fuel filters, plugs and wires (I used NGK Iridium and NAPA's best wires) and drive on.

 

[BiggSherm1988]

thanks for the info.

I wont be doing a rebuild as the engine has been maintained well. I spoke to the people who owned it before me, they are pretty good with keeping vehicles maintained. I did pull the trigger on replacement brake components everything but the calipers (I got the rebuild kit for them), all new suspension to Include bushings and a Wulf 2-3" key lift with extended shocks and drop shackle, new cam chain tensioners and stuff for a an oil change. I also have new O2 sensors but I don't have any issues so i think ill just keep them tell something comes about.

 

[Eddo Rogue]

I've done all that on several Rangers. If you are going to all that work I suggest replacing the springs too. It isn't a difficult job, but it is a good amount of work. The hardest part is the pivot bushings. Since you are in hot, dry California there is a good chance the weather turned those bushings into rocks that are fused to the metal they are pressed into. I had to take one to a shop with a press to get it out.

I already did the springs, replaced with leveling springs and shocks... and very happy with it.
Yes the pivot bushings are not going to be fun, nor will the ball joints. Figure while I'm in there to do the u joint clearance grind job on the axles, so they don't bind at full steer in 4wd. I've done bushings, just burnt out on wrenching in general. I have a 12 ton press and and air hammers/chisels to deal with the crusty bushings. The steering box probably needs replacement too.