The front suspension of the 1995 Chevy K1500 (part of the GMT400 platform) is a torsion bar independent setup. It uses upper and lower control arms, ball joints, tie rods, a sway bar, torsion bars, and twin-tube shock absorbers. This article breaks down each component, explains its function, and provides OEM (AC Delco) and aftermarket (Moog, Raybestos) part numbers to help you source replacements. Always verify fitment with your VIN before ordering.
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15pc Front End Suspension Kit with Polyurethane for 1995-1999 Chevy GMC K1500/K2500, Tahoe, Yukon, C
Upper Control Arm and Ball Joint
The upper control arm pivots on bushings and connects the frame to the steering knuckle via the upper ball joint. Worn bushings cause clunking, while a loose ball joint leads to steering wander and tire wear.
Part Numbers
- Upper ball joint: Moog K6413 (with grease fitting), AC Delco 45G1031, Raybestos 513-1021.
- Upper control arm assembly (driver side, 4WD): Moog CK62056, AC Delco 45G1039.
- Upper control arm assembly (passenger side, 4WD): Moog CK62057, AC Delco 45G1040.
- Upper control arm bushings (set): Moog K7247, Energy Suspension 3.5154R.
Lower Control Arm and Ball Joint
The lower control arm carries the spring load indirectly through the torsion bar. The lower ball joint is larger and takes more abuse. A failed lower ball joint can cause the knuckle to separate.
Part Numbers
- Lower ball joint: Moog K6412, AC Delco 45G1030, Raybestos 513-1020.
- Lower control arm (driver side, 4WD): AC Delco 45G2560, Moog RK62126 (aftermarket).
- Lower control arm (passenger side, 4WD): AC Delco 45G2561, Moog RK62127.
- Lower control arm bushings (set): Moog K7248, Energy Suspension 3.5164R.
Steering Knuckle and Wheel Bearings
The steering knuckle houses the wheel bearing/hub assembly on 4WD models. A bad bearing creates a grinding noise and play.
Part Numbers
- Hub assembly (front, 4WD): Timken HA590175, AC Delco 45G6008, Moog 513169.
- Wheel bearing kit (if separable): Timken SET44 (inner), SET45 (outer) – but most use one-piece hub.
- Steering knuckle (driver): AC Delco 45G2520 (4WD), aftermarket: Duralast 45G2520.
- Steering knuckle (passenger): AC Delco 45G2521.
Tie Rods (Inner and Outer)
Tie rods connect the steering rack (or steering box) to the steering knuckle. Worn tie rods cause loose steering and uneven tire wear.
Part Numbers
- Inner tie rod (driver side): Moog EV200, AC Delco 45G4003, Raybestos 790-1032.
- Inner tie rod (passenger side): Moog EV201, AC Delco 45G4004, Raybestos 790-1033.
- Outer tie rod (either side): Moog ES4391, AC Delco 45G4002, Raybestos 790-1031.
- Adjusting sleeve: Moog ES2126S (includes clamps).
Sway Bar and Bushings
The sway bar reduces body roll. Bushings wear out, causing knocking over bumps.
Part Numbers
- Sway bar links (front): Moog K7196 (pair), AC Delco 45G1045, Energy Suspension 9.5129.
- Sway bar bushings (front, 1.125" bar): Energy Suspension 9.5162R, Moog K6592.
- Sway bar itself (if needed): Not commonly replaced; salvage yard.
Torsion Bars and Keys
Torsion bars are adjustable to set ride height. They rarely fail, but the adjustment keys can strip. Spare bars are usually found at salvage yards.
Part Numbers
- Torsion bar key (adjuster): Moog K6479, AC Delco 45G1055.
- Torsion bar (left): AC Delco 45G1052 (4WD).
- Torsion bar (right): AC Delco 45G1053 (4WD).
- Torsion bar crossmember bushings: Energy Suspension 3.5172R.
Shocks and Struts
The K1500 uses conventional twin-tube shocks at all four corners. Replacing front shocks improves ride and handling.
Part Numbers
- Front shock absorber (driver side): Monroe 32329, Bilstein 24-065165, Gabriel G63315.
- Front shock absorber (passenger side): Monroe 32330, Bilstein 24-065165 (same part? Check fitment – often same part number for both sides), Gabriel G63316.
- Shock boot/bellows: Monroe AK33, Energy Suspension 3.5190.
Practical Recommendations
- Replace ball joints in pairs (both uppers or both lowers) and get an alignment afterward.
- Inspect control arm bushings when ball joints are replaced; worn bushings cause premature ball joint wear.
- Use Moog problem solver parts for improved grease fittings and durability.
- Torque all fasteners to spec – ball joint nuts typically 60-80 ft-lbs, control arm bolts 90-110 ft-lbs.
- Check VIN for 4WD vs 2WD – this article focuses on 4WD K1500; 2WD C1500 has different control arms and spindles.
- If lifting or lowering, adjust torsion bars with correct keys and consider drop pitman arm.
For a complete front end rebuild, budget around 8-12 hours of DIY time and $400-$800 in parts, depending on brand choice. Use this breakdown to order all necessary parts before starting the job.