Can anyone tell me how many grease zerks there should be on my 2001 F-150, as well as where to look for them (dang bi-focals aren't worth a squirt when lying on my back)? I've only been able to find two (on the ball joints I think) even though the owner's manual seems to insinuate more, including on the steering mechanism.

Thanks. :o

 

I'm going to guess that there is only 1... perhaps 2. I'm pretty darn sure that ball joints are lubed for life though.

My 1997 4x2 only has a grease fitting on the idler arm. I also have 80,000 miles and need to replace every single steering linkage. I guess it's the potholes more than lack of lubrication though

 

My 2002 only has 2.

 

My Expy has 2 as well. The Idler Arm.

I just bought a needle for my grease gun (Auto parts store for about $3) and injected all of the boots that were collapsed. Just doesn't seem right not to have a little fresh grease in there.

 

I guess Ford didn't want to shell out the extra $0.04 for a couple more zerks. My 97 only has two fittings. I also just greased the boots, especially the one above and below the end of the pitman arm. It was making an embarrassing squeal every time I turned the steering wheel. There has been alot of talk on here about the pitman squeal, but I imagine its bound to occur everywhere eventually. Invest in the needle for your grease gun. I just did and its well worth the $2.95 Hope this helps CIAO!

 

Thanks everyone. After I posted my query I found a couple other threads that addressed pretty much the same thing, with the same responses. I guess when the ball joints go bad I'll just replace them with aftermarket parts that DO have zerks!

 

Can anyone tell me where you put the needle? Do you just punch a hole in the boot or do you work it in on the edge of the boot? Thanks.

 

Hey Thad.....Here's what I did on the advice of many in here. I just bought a little needle that screws onto the grease gun, and a tube of silicone sealer (much like that blue gasket stuff) Then I cleaned the rubber with a little solvent, and wiped it with water, and dried it. I poked the needle right in the middle of the clean spot and pumped it with grease until it felt firm, but not ready to explode. Then just smeared a dab of silicone over the hole. So far so good, and that was about 15000kms ago..Hope this helps!

 

That helps alot, thanks. I bought the needle today but had not thought to reseal the hole. Great idea.