Complete Part List for 2002 Sport Trac Front End Suspension

Replacing the front suspension on a 2002 Ford Sport Trac can improve handling, reduce noise, and restore ride quality. This guide provides a detailed part list for a front end rebuild, covering everything from ball joints to sway bar links. Whether you’re a DIY mechanic or ordering parts for a shop, this list will help you identify what’s needed for a complete job.

Ball Joints

The 2002 Sport Trac uses upper and lower ball joints on each side. The lower ball joints are a common wear item and often fail first. Upper ball joints are typically replaced at the same time.

• Lower Ball Joints: Moog K80162 (left) and K80163 (right) or equivalent. These often come with a grease fitting for future maintenance.
• Upper Ball Joints: Moog K80068 or AC Delco 45G2042. Note that some replacement upper control arms come with the ball joint already installed, which can save time.

Control Arms

If the bushings are worn or the control arm is bent, replace the entire arm. The lower control arms are particularly prone to bushing wear.

• Lower Control Arms: Motorcraft WLC-701 (left) and WLC-702 (right) or aftermarket like Dorman 521-020 (left) and 521-021 (right). These include the ball joint and bushings.
• Upper Control Arms: Motorcraft WLC-696 (left) and WLC-697 (right) or aftermarket like Mevotech CMS749027 (left) and CMS749028 (right). Some upper arms come with the ball joint pre-installed.

Tie Rod Ends

Inner and outer tie rod ends control steering. Outer tie rods are more commonly replaced.

• Outer Tie Rod Ends: Moog ES3520 (left) and ES3521 (right). They feature a greaseable design.
• Inner Tie Rod Ends: Moog EV3520 (left) and EV3521 (right). These are less frequently replaced unless the joint is loose or the boot is torn.
• Tie Rod Assembly: If both inner and outer are needed, consider a complete assembly like AC Delco 45G2013 (left) and 45G2014 (right).

Sway Bar Links

The stabilizer bar links connect the sway bar to the control arm. They wear quickly on the Sport Trac.

• Sway Bar Links: Moog K7271 or Dorman 521-106. These are sold as a pair and typically include the link, bushings, and nuts.

Struts and Shocks

The 2002 Sport Trac has a strut-type front suspension. The strut assembly includes the spring and should be replaced as a unit if the strut is leaking or bouncy.

• Complete Strut Assembly: Monroe 171395 (left) and 171396 (right) or KYB 335116 (left) and 335117 (right). These come pre-assembled with the spring, making installation easier.
• Strut Mounts: If reusing old struts, replace the strut mounts with Moog K200211 or Dorman 907-040. Worn mounts can cause clunking.
• Strut Bellows/Bump Stops: Moog K100037 or Energy Suspension 4.3105G. These are often overlooked but prevent debris from damaging the strut rod.

Coil Springs

If the front end is sagging, new coil springs can restore ride height.

• Coil Springs: Moog 65116 (variable rate) or H&R 51609 (lowering). For stock height, use Motorcraft JN-153 or Dorman 722-012. Always replace springs in pairs.

Bushings and Hardware

Many worn parts can be attributed to degraded bushings.

• Lower Control Arm Bushing Kit: Energy Suspension 4.3106G or Moog K80664. If replacing the lower arm, bushings are included.
• Stabilizer Bar Bushings: Energy Suspension 9.5110 or Moog K7282. These clamp the sway bar to the frame.
• Sway Bar End Links: Already covered above, but the bushings can be purchased separately if reusing links.
• Caster/Camber Adjusting Bolts: Specialty Products 81250 or Moog K100183. These allow alignment after suspension work.

Additional Components

• Spindle Nut: Replacement spindle nuts (2 required) – Dorman 091-130 or similar. Always use a new cotter pin.
• Splash Shields: Not always replaced, but if rusted, order shields for each side.
• Grease: A tube of bearing grease for ball joints and tie rod ends is essential.

Tools for the Job

• Jack and jack stands
• Ball joint press or separator
• Torque wrench
• Socket set and wrenches (metric and SAE)
• Spring compressor if not using complete strut assemblies
• Alignment specs: After any suspension work, a front-end alignment is mandatory.

Part Number Tips

• Use your VIN to verify exact parts, as early and late 2002 models may differ.
• Aftermarket brands like Moog, TRW, and Mevotech offer good quality at a reasonable price.
• OEM Motorcraft parts ensure a perfect fit but cost more.
• Avoid no-name brands; safety and durability matter.

Recommended Order of Replacement

1. Sway bar links and bushings (easiest)
2. Tie rod ends (outer first, then inner if needed)
3. Lower control arms (if worn)
4. Upper control arms (if worn)
5. Strut assemblies (or just struts/springs)
6. Ball joints (if not replaced with control arms)

Do one side at a time to use the other as a reference. Clean and lubricate all bolts before removal to prevent snapping.

Final Recommendations

For a complete front end overhaul on a 2002 Sport Trac, budget for these key parts:

• Option A (Budget): Replace only worn items like lower ball joints, outer tie rods, and sway bar links. Use Moog problem-solving parts for longevity. This covers common failures without replacing everything.
• Option B (Full Rebuild): Replace both lower and upper control arms, inner and outer tie rods, strut assemblies, and sway bar links. This eliminates guesswork and should deliver like-new performance for 50,000+ miles. Expect a cost between $400 and $700 for quality aftermarket parts.

Always get an alignment after the job. If you’re unsure about which parts to choose, stick with Moog or TRW for a good balance of price and durability. Avoid cheap imports; they often fail quickly. Use your VIN when ordering to confirm compatibility.

By following this list, you can complete a front suspension repair on your 2002 Ford Sport Trac with confidence. The right parts make the difference between a smooth ride and ongoing issues.