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Sky_Boss · 07-15-2012, 06:24 PM

I'm looking at replacing the King Pins on my W24. They are a bit worn and have some life in them as long as they are kept greased. If I can get my service contract to pay for it...no brainer. LOL

Now, I'm no chassis wizard so I did download a generic outline of king pin replacement.

http://www.stovebolt.com/techtips/kingpin.pdf

If what that article talks about applies to my situation then I hope my following questions make sense. If not...

So, that leaves me a few questions:

1. Am I correct that when they talk about replacing king pins they are really talking about the bushings?

2. From what I am reading it sounds like the bushings in the larger rigs are pressed into the spindles so maybe that means the entire spindle assembly is replaced?

3. I have an estimate of $2275 to replace both pins. That includes 10 hours labor $720), wheel alignment ($275) and some other seals and gaskets ($100). Of that, $1046 is just for the king pins! Anyone know if that is reasonable or not? (If it is only bushings, it does to me.)

4. I'm having trouble finding part numbers so that I can skunk around and see prices for parts. Anyone have info on that?

mgscott4 · 07-15-2012, 07:20 PM

What makes you think you need new king pins? They are pretty stout on W series chassis. They typically good for a lot of miles.

Worn wheel bearings are more likely and a lot cheaper to replace.

Sky_Boss · 07-15-2012, 07:26 PM

I had the front end aligned and the tech showed me the play in the king pin. There was more play in the right side than the left side. I was told by a guy in the truck industry that it is not uncommon for the right side to go first because it is the side that gets the most abuse.

The service tech told me that it wasn't critical and "had life" still. I was told to keep it packed with grease.

I am thinking of taking it to another truck place for a second opinion. The original diagnosis is by a reputable service center.

That is what I THINK I know for now. BTW, I have 48,000 miles on the rig.

stuhly · 07-15-2012, 07:41 PM

I have replaced kingpins and bushings in my class 8 trucks over the years and Kingpins and bushings do not cost over $1000. They also last more than 40000 miles if kept greased properly. I would check with some one else for price.