89 S-10 Blazer Steering and Suspension Worn Out

[rublazn]

I have an 1989 S10 Blazer 4.3 4x4 with 220K. I have never replaced anyting on the steering or front end. I did replace the shocks about 100K ago with Rancho 5000 and had the springs in the rear re-arched and leaf added because I tow a lot.

 

Well the truck rides like a board now. Not sure what I should start with first. I was thinking about replacing all upper and lower ball joints. Get new monroe reflex shocks cuz I never thought the Ranchos were that good. But what other things should I replace? I know there are several bushings in the front end and have not seen where anyone make a kit to replace all with polyurethane ones.

 

What I would like to have is a stiff steering again along with a more comfortable ride. The wife fusses every time she has to get in the truck.

 

If any one has does this and has some insite please let me know. I really don't know what I'm getting into.

 

Kev

[asilverblazer]

I got a a similar Blazer too (2wd) after putting lowering springs on and taking them back off (big mistake), the front end is terribly loose. It needs all new components I assume ball joints, tierods, and ends, possibly some centerlinks. Then bearings, rotors, new calipers... At this point I've spent more money rebuilding than the truck is worth, so unless yours is in pristine condition I would look into replacig the truck not parts. I suppose though, if yours is the 4.3 + 4x4 it would be worth a considerable amount more than my 2.3V6 (Whata joke), not sure though. In the back of my mind I keep having the inkeling to fix it back up, one part at a time, especially since selling it would be a waste.

[rublazn]

Yea, I am almost in the same boat. That's why I want to know what all I might be looking at to see if it's worth doing. I have had this truck for 12 years and I hate to junk it. I have so many new parts on it. At some point in time it's going to be cost effective to let it sit. I still hope I can keep patching on it without spending to much to keep it going.

[DaZ]

well the bushings and ball joint on the lower control arm are pressed in, not the most fun thing to replace without the right tools and if you put new coil springs in the front it should make the ride a little smoother

[bgs]

I have an 1989 S10 Blazer 4.3 4x4 with 220K.  I have never replaced anyting on the steering or front end.  I did replace the shocks about 100K ago with Rancho 5000 and had the springs in the rear re-arched and leaf added because I tow a lot.

 

Well the truck rides like a board now.  Not sure what I should start with first.  I was thinking about replacing all upper and lower ball joints.  Get new monroe reflex shocks cuz I never thought the Ranchos were that good.  But what other things should I replace?  I know there are several bushings in the front end and have not seen where anyone make a kit to replace all with polyurethane ones.

 

What I would like to have is a stiff steering again along with a more comfortable ride.  The wife fusses every time she has to get in the truck.

 

If any one has does this and has some insite please let me know.  I really don't know what I'm getting into. 

 

Kev

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

Here's place that sells complete rebuild kits. It may help you out. Getting

fresh coils and new shocks after the rebuild will have it riding really good

again. It won't run that much, but as mentioned age is a factor. Anyway

 

http://www.performancesuspension.com./

 

HTH's

bgs