Hi All, How much play should be in the king pins? I replaced mine about 10 years ago, but has very little miles on them since then. I pulled the front wheel and brakes off this weekend and noticed I have slight up and down movement. I am sure they are dry of grease. I am thinking there should be none. Should I go with the oversized king pins? Thanks for your help! Howard
King pin play None. There should be no play. With that said grease them and try them again. Regardless if theres any play to know 4 sure check them sooner then later. I waited too long and instead of costing $50 aside it cost well over #200 for the complete kit. (4wdfactory.com) is a great (cheap) place 4 60 parts.
I am only going on memory from when my father did the king pins on his '53 half ton, but don't you replace both the bushings and the pins? You have to line bore the new bushings to the right diameter.
Up and down play is easy to fix : add a shim on the bottom so it's not supporting any load , grease frequently and drive happy . if the kingpin has lateral play you'll need new bushings , if no visable wear on the pins , simply ream to fit . .001" clearance Max.
