I have a 2002 Sport Trac pushing 196k miles and the front end is squeaking something terrible. I'm thinking its time rebuild the entire front end. The only "brand name" aftermarket kits I'm seeing are Detroit Axle or TRQ.

Does anyone have an opinion on either brand or whether the aftermarket parts appreciably better that the factory parts?

 

I use amazon or rock auto for part sourcing most of the time and specifically stick with the name brands such as MOOG, TRW, AC Delco, Dorman, MAS (which is owned by Dorman now), Motorcraft.... stay with the "professional line" (some use different terms but avoid econo, etc.) and if you can get the parts with grease fittings even better (getting hard to find) but one word of caution- avoid the "Thermo-plastic" crap!!!!!!