Got a bit of a dilemma. I just got handed a ~$1200 estimate for work that the 97 F30 needs done on the front end. Me, being the poor, cheap, anal, whatever you want to call it, guy that I am figured I'd do the work myself at the auto hobby shop on base.

Problem is - I really don't know much about suspensions and axles and such. Of course, I didn't really know much about carbs, engines, and other stuff once but I learned.

So here's what I need: (all on front axle, 4x4)
-4 ball joints
-right inner tie rod (the most expensive one of the 3)
-axle seals (I have a slight leak at both ends of the front axle)
-Trac Arm (???)

I'm trying to generate a price list for the parts now. I have a few weeks/months I hope before I really need to do these things. I'll spend the time buying parts and learning how to do it. My biggest question is: What are some other names for a "trac arm"? I can't find "trac arm" listed on any parts page. Is it the same as a pittman arm? Torsion bar (I don't think so, as I have leaf springs)?

Of course, if any of you out there have done this kind of work some words of widsom would be greatly appreciated.

cheers,

Matt.

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-livin' in the terminally flippant zone