Re: Upper/Lower Ball Joint removal?
Re: Re: Upper/Lower Ball Joint removal? -- Old Guy	Post Reply	Top of thread	Maverick Message Board

Posted by: JC ® 2001/08/08, 11:03:26 Author Profile

I am dealing with the same thing....thanks for the advice. I rebuilt my suspension about ten months a go an I had no problem seperating the ball joints from the spindles. I think it was because I removed the springs first. Right now I am putting disc brakes on the car and I'm having no luck getting the ball joints seperated. In fact last saturday I started the project only to end prematuraly so that I could go to the ER for stitches.....I smashed my finger. I think I'm going to remove or compress each spring before I go any further.....when My finger heals! ::Hi all, :: ::I was wondering if I need access to a press to get the upper and lower ball joints off the spindle on a 76 Mav I6? I have a pickle fork type remover and can't seem to get the upper ball joint off the spindle. Also, I was hoping a less destructive method to the balljoints during removal. and how to I install them afterwards. :: ::Thanks :: ::Fred Fermin : : : The easiest and less destructive way to remove them is to get a ball joint remover tool, it is similiar to a screw type puller. I think you may be able to rent them, or I have used the old 2lb ballpien hammer trick. Insert the pickle fork between the spindle and ball joint, put a short piece of pipe over the forks handle. Have someone put downward pressure on the fork by preferably standing on it, then take the big nasty hammer and hit on the spindle itself where the joint is inserted. Leave the nut a few threads on the ball joint so that it does not come flying out all at once and sending your helper and tools in several directions. This is a tapered fit and with a few good licks with the hammer(similiar to an impact wrench) it should come loose. But remember SAFETY FIRST-jack stands, spring support,safety glasses etc. Install it by making sure the taper is inserted down into the spindle far enough so it won't turn when tightening the nut. Good luck and BE CAREFUL!

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