Author Topic: 1983 GMC Front End Suspension (2WD)  (Read 1428 times)

Offline JRyan0720

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1983 GMC Front End Suspension (2WD)
« on: October 20, 2021, 10:02:07 PM »
Driving around I’ve noticed some rattling in the front end. I’m thinking it’s due to all the worn bushings between rods, arms, struts etc. Does anyone know of a place that offers complete rebuild kits with the bushings, tie rods, coil springs etc? I’d like to do it right and tighten it all up so it’s like new again. Any recommendations are greatly appreciated!

Offline VileZambonie

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Re: 1983 GMC Front End Suspension (2WD)
« Reply #1 on: October 21, 2021, 06:40:18 PM »
Based on what you've said, I'd advise you do your homework on what parts are what, what they do and which ones actually need to be replaced. You can buy all of the replacement parts you need from your local auto parts store. You do not have struts on your truck either. Find your rattling noise which is probably not a steering or suspension component by getting under the truck and giving a thorough inspection. Shake the exhaust, look for loose or broken parts.
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Offline JRyan0720

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Re: 1983 GMC Front End Suspension (2WD)
« Reply #2 on: October 21, 2021, 08:05:31 PM »
Thank you sir will do! Found the issue today and will go from there. Thank you again for the reply

Offline bd

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Re: 1983 GMC Front End Suspension (2WD)
« Reply #3 on: October 21, 2021, 08:24:59 PM »
What did you decide is the issue?
Rich
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In other words... if people learn by making mistakes, by now I should know just about everything!!!
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Offline JRyan0720

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Re: 1983 GMC Front End Suspension (2WD)
« Reply #4 on: October 21, 2021, 08:45:33 PM »
The bushings at a couple points on the front sway bar are completely gone. Makes sense because when I turn left and hit a small bump it being loose causes it to move up and down hitting metal on metal in that channel area, making the noise I’ve been hearing.

(airplanes have struts which is what I’m around everyday. Got my parts mixed up on original post)

Offline JohnnyPopper

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Re: 1983 GMC Front End Suspension (2WD)
« Reply #5 on: October 21, 2021, 09:10:09 PM »
How many miles are on the truck? If the sway bar has grenaded, it's possible the other components are loose too.

Without a trained eye to measure the wear/tear on bushings, tie rod ends, ball joints, you may be better served to take it to a reputable Alignment Shop for a professional opinion.

Find one that will allow you to go into the PIT to see for yourself what is loose and moving, or rotted. (unnaturally) If they say no for 'insurance' reasons, MOVE ON.

Finally, look for oil leak that may have caused your bushing to fail.
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Offline JRyan0720

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Re: 1983 GMC Front End Suspension (2WD)
« Reply #6 on: October 24, 2021, 06:57:55 PM »
Odometer shows 95,350. Thank you for the input. I will take it in and have it looked through as well.

Offline JohnnyPopper

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Re: 1983 GMC Front End Suspension (2WD)
« Reply #7 on: October 24, 2021, 11:11:35 PM »
That's a pretty good run with no rebuild that you know of.

50-60k usually gets things loose if not maintained i.e. regular lube service at a minimum.

Look forward to hearing what you find.

Believe it or not, a lot of these components are on the DIY level to repair, leaving only the final alignment to perfect the ride.
1957 Apache 3100 235 Inline 6, 3 on the tree
1973 C-20, 3+3 454 4BBL TH400  Water Injection
1978 K-10, 350 4BBL TH350 NP203 M.M. Part time Kit/Hubs
1980 C-10 under construction

Offline 1980K20

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Re: 1983 GMC Front End Suspension (2WD)
« Reply #8 on: October 28, 2021, 01:13:03 AM »
My experience was that suspension parts that have generic brand names are junk. Same with brakes. Go with reputable brands. I had to replace the brand new junk bushings on my camaro, Moog worked great. Probably any big name brand is fine.

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