Ball Joints and Wheel Bearings Replaced

So after a long hiatus we have finally started some work on our Isuzu MU Wizard. The first thing we did was replace the ball joints.

The ball joints had reached the point where it would fall off any time. It would squeak whenever I hit a hump/bump or turned a corner. This led to me grounding the Wizard for almost 6 months.

I know its a long time but I was caught up with work that there was very little time during the day to work on the SUV. Fortunately, I'm starting 2021 with catching up with the vehicle's maintenance.

Last week we replaced all the ball joints and outer wheel bearings. All parts were sourced from Pacific Engineering in Port Moresby.

The ball joints did not require special tools - ball joint puller, etc - but it did require some elbow grease and breaker bar.

While the ball joints were out, we also decided to check the wheel bearings - and yes - they were also kaput. We ended up replacing them as well.

We have also identified that the tie rods need replacement so that has been added to the next to-do list.

In the coming months we will replace the CV joints, rear lift gate (glass) and hopefully put in manual locking hubs.

And I almost forgot, the break lights have stopped working so we are going to get an auto electrician to check it out.

Until next time. Lukim yu!

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Interior Cleaning – Driver’s Seat

So I’ve started cleaning the interior beginning with the driver’s seat. The seats have collected dust over the years and I frankly not healthy for use. The interior is very dirty and will require a lot of cleaning. Anyway, I have started with the driver’s seat and I’m working my way around. I had initially wanted to have it vacuumed but after seeing this video I decided to give it a try. The seats are not in spectacular condition, but I have gotten rid of the dust and it is much better than it was. I also had to clean the bottom slider so the seat would move freely. It had hardened dirt could hardly move. I clean it using a carb cleaner which was a mistake. It turns out carb cleaner has paint thinner and stripped some of the paint. Driver's seat is much cleaner now. This was easily fixed with a bit of sandpapering and a coat of paint. I plan to have all the seats cleaned by the end of the week. Unfortunately, I have just met another obstacle – a dead battery.

List of Repairs to Do on the Isuzu MU Wizard

So I’ve decided to publish a list of things that need to be done on the Isuzu MU Wizard. I started the list on initial inspection of the vehicle but after removing the tires, I’ve noted a few other things that need to be done. There is a tilt so the torsion bars need to be adjusted. Brake cable . The most obvious work that needs to be done is to get the parking/emergency brake cables replaced. I might also replace the rotors and brake pads. The windows and doors need to be fixed . Suspensions . The rear sway bar is broken and also bushings might need to be replaced. I also felt like weight was being shifted too much to one side when turning. This is not good. CV axle . These have been removed for both sides so I will have to have them replaced. Wheel hub assembly? I plan to have this done but it’s not a priority yet. Seats and interior. I will also have to get the seats fixed and the interior cleaned. It is a mess at the moment. Torsion bar ...

I Am Starting a Video Blog (Vlogging)

So recently decided to start a video blog for repairs on the Isuzu MU Wizard and writing can can be a bit time consuming. I am using a Lenovo K320t smartphone which does not have the best camera - but should do for now. I am also using FilmoraGo to edit the videos on my phone. Here is my first video.

Bernard's Isuzu MU Wizard Journey

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