Balljoints replacement

[Slick1100]

How difficult is it to replace a front balljoint? I just replaced the struts and mounts on my car, and now I find that the front right balljoint is shot. Ugh!! I guess throwing my car through the turns takes its toll!

[entirelyturbo]

It should be simple enough: pop the knuckle off of the balljoint, then take a tie-rod fork lever and pop the balljoint out of the control arm. But as I learned with my XT, these cars aren't brand new . One hour of hammering on that stupid balljoint was the only way I could get the stupid thing out...

[Slick1100]

Ouch! An hour of hammering?! Well, thankfully the price is pretty good for the balljoint and I have plenty of time! Sounds like more fun in the garage.

[Nigel]

Be carefull when you remove the pinch-bolt that holds the ball joint in the knuckle. When I did mine, the bolt snapped and it was a major PITA to drill out the bolt. I've heard similar stories from others. I took a torch to the other side to make sure it came out ok. If that's not an option, then really soak it in penetrating oil first.

Once you get the bolt out, it can take some doing to get the joint out of the knuckle because of rust build-up. I cleaned out the knuckle with a small wire wheel on my dremel and applied lots of anti-sieze so I wouldn't have to go through this headache again next time I have to replace a joint.

Nigel
'94 Legacy Turbo
'73 Datsun 240Z Turbo

[Slick1100]

Thanks for the warning. After having a stud sheer on the rear of my car recently (F*@#ing Sears!!) I've been expecting the worst when I take things apart.