I have just removed the entire front end of my car. 2 questions....

How or what goes wrong with a centerlink that would make you want to change it?

Are there any kits of a high quality that will have the entire front end included. Ball joints, centerlink, idler arm control arm bushings etc. WITH HARDWARE.

I plan on using disc brakes and I currently have control arms with round bushings and oval bushings.

I am doing the same thing and would like to know as well.

Also is there a difinitive test for ball joints? Mine are still firm and, with a little leverage, move smoothly.

What I have discovered so far in doing a search is that NAPA sells Dana/Spicer (sp?) ball joints and other hard parts but the soft parts (re: rubber bushings) are fine from just about any place.

Usually the centerlink doesn't need replacement unless it's bent or, more commonly, the holes for the tie-rods become worn and the tie-rods don't fit.

Oh, and I got the PST kit and LOVE it! It is a very high quality kit yet it doesn't come with hardware or a centerlink.

Obviously if the holes are oval I would replace.

I thought there might be some test. I saw a mechanic grab the installed tie rods and then the centerlink and give them a shake, feeling for any play. Is this the standard method? Is it obvious? Are they like bearings; which are either good or done?

Here's how I diagnose worn steering components.

Pull the front wheels up on ramps (not jackstands; you want the weight on the wheels).

With the car off, have someone turn the steering wheel back and forth, just to the point of resistance each direction, while you look all over the steering system from top to bottom. If there is ANY slop in any of the components, change them. Be sure to check the rag joint as well.

I changed my center link because the ends were worn and had a bunch of play in them. I changed the whole linkage while I was at it. I "only" found play in the center link and idler arm, but changed everything.

What is considered the "best" when it comes to suspesion parts?

What is considered the "best" when it comes to suspesion parts?

Dana/spicer and Moog.

I like to have the car sit with the weight on the control arms on each side and shake the tires myself or have a partner shake while I look at each steering joint.

Its been a while since I put a new center link in my 66SS. Those have actual movable joints on each end, that can and do wear out. When my partner is moving the wheel side to side, he only needs to move it enough to shake the components. Not actually turn the wheel as if trying to steer. Ill put my hand on the joint and feel if any play is going on unless its obvious enough to see.

Thanks Chris

That was the trick I was looking for.