Those upper ball joints are replaceable. The rubber deteriorates from age then rapidly wears the joints due to the joint being unprotected and subjected to the elements. Take the control arms out and have a shop install the joints - you'll thank yourself by going with MOOG parts. They're also greasable. The end links are simple to install while you're reinstalling the parts and might as well install new shocks while you're in there and have it all apart.
'04 Silver Marauder w/ sunroof - HID lighting, JL Audio / Eclipse DVD/NAV/iPod/camera, 4.10's, 2" drop, Progard Bumper Baffle, Delete tips, Billet Pedals, BC4E dead pedal, Lidio Tune, Mach1 chin spoiler, K&N CAI, TCE lines, Super40's, tinted tails, SS Inserts, Heinous Control Arms, Real oil gauge, lighted door handles. Currently installing Eaton M112.
2004 Mercury Marauder
Born March 2004, adopted October 2005. Sold January 2012, adopted AGAIN January 2016
2,187 of 3,214
997 in Silver Birch
448 with light flint interior
304 with heated seats
336 with sunroof