Front suspension

[Snow1]

Hi there all!  A question for those in NZ. Where will I find a source for ball joints. rod ends and lower arm bushes?
Isn't it amazing how suspension joints wear out when your van is parked up! Got the camper out, took it for a warrant and had it failed for wirn joints. It has none about 200km since the last check! I'm finding it bloody interesting checking out what is being done to vans out there.  Thanks, Snow

[ben]

why dont you check them yourself make sure there not pulling your leg.. ball joints dont wear out from siting in the garage:(

[Snow1]

Is possible I suppose but this is at a garage that I have used lots of times before and they have never pulled the wool over me before.  I feel that it is probably best for me to go through every thing my self as the camper has not been restored before. That way I know that I can rely on it in the future.   Thanks,  Snow

[cme2c]

last time I needed ball joints I got them from Martin at http://www.carparts-direct.co.uk/older-cars-kit-cars

[cfjeff]

try bnt automotive, they are nationwide and usually have them.

[Jeff]

There are two different size bottom ball joints. The later ones are slightly larger.

[Sundownernz]

Hey Snow,

You can get them all from a bunch of places. BNT, Supercheap, Repco, Pedders all have them or can get them. Costs vary a bit so try them all and get the best price. Hard to find rubber bushes these days but nolethane ones are readily available.

Cheers,
Garry.

[Snow1]

Thanks for that. It all helps. Garry, I don't know if you remember but I called you early this year to ask for the size of holes in the towing eyes in the front cross member. You were spot on! I made a towing pole and easily towed the camper from Napier back to Matamata. The pole has since been used by a friend to recover another camper from Whakatane. It definitely makes towing a breeze!  Thanks for your help and hope we can catch up at some time. Cheers, Snow

[BusyKiwi]

Hey snow, any chance you went to VTNZ for your wof ?

If you did and the balljoint is good, clean it up and go back (make sure it is good though). half those guys don't know what their on about and recheck should pass, and make sure the boot isn't split/broken.

[Snow1]

Hi Busy, no it wasn't VTNZ but I know what you are saying.  That idea has crossed my mind. I will have a closer look at all the suspension joints before I rip it all apart.  By the way, nice work on both your vans!  Snow