Two problems related to ball joint have been reported for the 1998 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Tl-the contact owns a 1998 Ford Explorer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 5 mph, a noise emitted when the steering wheel was being maneuvered. The malfunction occurred whenever making a turn. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the front and rear ball joints were defective. The manufacturer was notified of the problem. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000. Pmb.
Took Explorer in to local Ford dealer to have firestone wilderness at tires replaced plus a wheel alignment done. Dealer said that alignment could not be done until both front tie-rod ends were replaced. Said that tie-rods were good enough for yearly auto inspection but not for long. I had them replaced but thought that replacement at 30,000 miles was a little premature. After looking at your complaint database, I noticed that others had reported tie-rod and ball joint failures on the '98 Explorer's so I thought I should send mine in also even though no accident occurred and it may not actually be considered a safety defect. This truck has never been taken "off-the-road" either.