2004 MCS, 160K. Original owner, never tracked or wrecked, recent replacement of all strut components, Powerflex on the LCA bushings about 50K ago. Still have some noisy looseness that I would like to eliminate, within reason. Thinking of front outer ball joints, and in the rear the sway bar bushings. However, can't decide whether to install Powerflex in the rear lower control arm bracket, or just install a new bracket. And, what about the lateral control arms? Do they wear out? Replace lowers only? Don't want to replace front inner ball joints and sway bar bushings until I decide whether to lower the subframe in order to replace the clutch. Your suggestions would be appreciated. TIA

 

Any rubber or ball joint is going to be pretty worn at that age and mileage. I would do all the front end ball joints and links. Do the front sway bar bushings too, maybe at clutch time.
Rear bushings will also be worn so new lateral links with bushings can't hurt, also RSB bushings.

Will you be keeping it forever? How is the rust situation?

 

No rust. Plan to keep indefinitely. Power train in very good shape. When you say 'lateral links' do the uppers wear out at the same rate as the lowers? Uppers seem much harder for a DIY change.