Any USA options for front end service sets?

[marcusicp]

I am looking at getting some front end service tools and I have been using this set: Link

I have started to damage them from normal heavy use and was wondering if a better USA made version existed? I have been all over the Snap-On site but don't seem to be finding a kit like it. I prefer Snap-On for ease of warranty but would also consider any good USA made options. Thanks!

 

[dirtmister16]

im unsure if OTC has a part in it. but ive heard good things about the hub shark, but it won't do all your looking for.

i seem to remember snap on had a front end kit i thought or maybe it was the balljoint tool that was supposed to be really good. you may have to do some looking around.

 

[NC-Fordguy]

I am looking at getting some front end service tools and I have been using this set: Link

I have started to damage them from normal heavy use and was wondering if a better USA made version existed? I have been all over the Snap-On site but don't seem to be finding a kit like it. I prefer Snap-On for ease of warranty but would also consider any good USA made options. Thanks!

Can't comment on your particular set but I have found that cast front end service tools are pretty weak.(Looks like a cast set) Forged pullers are much more stout, Particularly when it comes to a pitman arm puller. I've bent/broken several cast pitman arm pullers.

Even forged open jaw pitman arm pullers will give way to very stubborn pitman arms. The forged conical style works so much better.

 

[marcusicp]

I seem to be using the puller set for ball joints and tie rod ends more than anything else. The ones that don't pop out when hit with a 4lb mini sledge take a lot of force with the pullers to remove and have started to bent the tips of the jaws.

NC-Fordguy got me looking at forged pitman arm pullers now. Do the Conical Pitman arm pullers work on most tie rod ends and ball joints?

 

[NC-Fordguy]

NC-Fordguy got me looking at forged pitman arm pullers now. Do the Conical Pitman arm pullers work on most tie rod ends and ball joints?

I haven't ever tried. I specialize in 4x4s and tre are threaded into the tie rod (well at least on one end in some applications).

As far as ball joints I've just always used a ball joint press or ball joint splitter depending on application.

I've swapped out many steering gearboxes or installed drop pitman arms over the years. It's common to go to a ported box for ram assist steering when running large tires. Never had an issue using a conical puller removing a pitman arm.

Got a few cast pullers that now serve well as door stops

 

[theamcaddict]

K tool international
70365 Made in USA

As for everything alse k tool does not make any usa made front end service tools.
I got mine new for 16 dollars.

Good luck with the search

 

[gatlibs]

Does anyone know of a made in U.S.A. front service kit or individual pieces?
Conical pitman arm puller?
Pitman arm puller (K Tool 70365)
Tie rod end pullers?
Ball joint remover?
Tie rod end lifter?
Ball joint press (Snap-on BJP1 & O.T.C. 7249)
Pickle forks (Lisle 41220, 41500, 41400, 41440, & rebrands such as Craftsman)

All of the kids that I have found are nut made in U.S.A. l such as this one. https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/powerbuilt-tools-kit-3-front-end-service-kit-648626/9150006-P