Detroit Axle 1998 F150 Front Suspension Kit Part Number and Description

Replacing the front suspension on a 1998 Ford F-150 is a common maintenance task as these trucks age. Worn ball joints, tie rods, and control arms lead to loose steering, uneven tire wear, and a rough ride. Aftermarket kits like those from Detroit Axle offer a complete overhaul at a reasonable cost. However, selecting the correct part number is critical because the 1998 F-150 came in several configurations: two-wheel drive (2WD), four-wheel drive (4WD), and different engine options can affect suspension geometry. This article covers the Detroit Axle front suspension kit part numbers for the 1998 F-150, describes what is included, and provides guidance to ensure you get the right kit.

Why Choose Detroit Axle for Your 1998 F-150 Front Suspension?

Detroit Axle is a well-known aftermarket brand that produces suspension and drivetrain components for light trucks and SUVs. Their front suspension kits are popular among DIYers and professional mechanics because they bundle multiple worn parts into one package. Instead of buying control arms, ball joints, tie rods, and sway bar links separately, you get everything needed to restore the front end. The parts are built to meet or exceed OEM specifications, often with improved materials like hardened steel ball joints and heavy-duty bushings. For a 1998 F-150, using a complete kit simplifies ordering and ensures all components work together.

Detroit Axle Front Suspension Kit Part Numbers for the 1998 F-150

Detroit Axle offers several front suspension kits for the 1998 F-150, differentiated primarily by drive type and whether the truck is equipped with standard or heavy-duty suspension. The most common part numbers are:

Part Number DTAK015 – 2WD Complete Front End Kit

• Description: This kit includes all front-end components for 1998 F-150 2WD models. It contains upper and lower control arms (pre-assembled with ball joints), outer and inner tie rods, sway bar end links, and all necessary hardware. The control arms come with premium rubber bushings and are powder-coated for corrosion resistance. Ball joints are pre-greased and sealed.
• Compatibility: Fits 1997-2003 Ford F-150 2WD and 1997-2003 Ford Expedition 2WD. Specific for 1998, it matches trucks with coil spring front suspension.

Part Number DTAK016 – 4WD Complete Front End Kit

• Description: This is the equivalent kit for 1998 F-150 4WD models. It includes the same components as the 2WD kit but with heavy-duty ball joints and tie rods designed to handle the added weight and stresses of a 4WD system. The upper control arms are shaped differently to accommodate the front axle shafts and CV joints.
• Compatibility: Fits 1997-2003 Ford F-150 4WD and 1997-2003 Ford Expedition 4WD. Do not use on 2WD trucks.

Part Number DTAK017 – Front Lower Control Arm Kit (Driver and Passenger Side)

• Description: If you only need lower control arms and ball joints, this kit provides just the lower arms (left and right) with ball joints installed. It does not include upper arms, tie rods, or sway bar links.
• Compatibility: Same years as above, both 2WD and 4WD.

Kit Components Description

All complete kits (DTAK015 and DTAK016) include:

• Upper control arms (left and right) – pre-assembled with ball joints and bushings.
• Lower control arms (left and right) – pre-assembled with ball joints and bushings.
• Inner tie rods (left and right) – for the steering rack.
• Outer tie rods (left and right) – adjustable for toe alignment.
• Sway bar end links (front) – stabilizes the front sway bar.
• Mounting hardware – nuts, bolts, and cotter pins where needed.

Parts come with a limited lifetime warranty against defects.

Compatibility Notes

• 2WD vs 4WD: The control arms and ball joints are different between 2WD and 4WD. The 4WD kit has stronger ball joints and control arms that clear the axle shafts. Never use a 2WD kit on a 4WD truck.
• Year Range: Detroit Axle kits for the 1998 F-150 typically fit 1997-2003 models. However, there were minor changes between early and late years (e.g., 1999+ have different steering rack mounts). For 1998, the kits are a direct fit. If your truck has been modified or has a torsion bar front suspension (rare for F-150), these kits will not work. Most 1998 F-150s use coil springs.
• Heavy-Duty vs Standard: If your F-150 has a payload or towing package, the 4WD kit (DTAK016) is also suitable for heavier 2WD trucks, but the 2WD kit (DTAK015) is not recommended for heavy loads. Check your truck's GVWR; if above 7,700 lbs, consider the heavy-duty version.

How to Install the Detroit Axle Front Suspension Kit

Installation of a complete front end kit is a major job. You need basic mechanical skills, a ball joint press (or rental tool), floor jack, jack stands, and a torque wrench. The control arms and tie rods bolt in place. However, the ball joints on the lower control arms often need to be pressed into the knuckle. The upper control arms are typically bolt-on and already assembled. After installation, a professional alignment is mandatory because the tie rods and control arm positions affect camber, caster, and toe. Expect 4-6 hours of labor if you are experienced, longer for a beginner.

Tips for Ordering the Correct Part Number

Before purchasing, confirm your truck's specifications:

1. Drive Type: Check if your 1998 F-150 is 2WD or 4WD. The vehicle identification number (VIN) can tell you, but the easiest way is to look under the front—if you see a front differential and CV axles, it's 4WD.
2. Suspension Type: Most 1998 F-150s have coil spring front suspension. If your truck has torsion bars (rare), you need a different kit.
3. Existing Modifications: If the truck has a lift kit, aftermarket suspension, or different control arms, the Detroit Axle kit may not fit without additional parts.
4. Confirm with Retailer: When ordering from an auto parts store, provide your make, model, year, and drive type. The part number they return should match DTAK015 or DTAK016. If in doubt, call Detroit Axle customer service.

Final Recommendation

For most 1998 Ford F-150 owners needing front suspension replacement, the Detroit Axle complete front end kit (DTAK015 for 2WD, DTAK016 for 4WD) is a solid choice. It delivers good value by replacing all common wear items at once, and the parts are built to last. Just verify the drive type before purchasing, and always align the vehicle after installation. If you only need lower control arms, the DTAK017 kit is an alternative, but the complete kit is usually the better investment because the upper components are likely worn too. Check your truck's condition to decide, but if you plan to keep the truck for several more years, go with the full kit.