Guys and gals, after reading multiple posts and searching for parts I am offically confused.

My question.......can you replace the upper ball joints without replacing the entire upper control arm?

I can buy what is supposed to be (oe replacement) ball joints, and can buy the entire control arm. Some posts here say they can be replaced with a ball joint press and others say no...must replace the arm.

So, what is the truth from someone who actually has done it?

Vehicle is a 2002 Explorer 4WD


Anyone help please ????