fighting ball joints - need help!
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fighting ball joints - need help!
I'm replacing ball joints on my 81 F150 4x4 and having problems removing the knuckle from the axle beam. Book says after ball joint bolts removed, tap on upper stem to break knuckle free from axle beam. As you can see from the pics, I have pounded w/ a BFH, used ball joint separator, heated it up, lubed it down...can't get that sucker to budge. Its starting to make me think I left out a step. Which brings me to the experts...you guys!
Does anyone out there have any words of wisdom they could impart on this backyard mechanic? thanks in advance
Does anyone out there have any words of wisdom they could impart on this backyard mechanic? thanks in advance
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Joined: Apr 2011
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From: Orlando area
I used a pitman arm puller. The "U" shaped part with the feet slides under the Camber sleeve and the threaded end tightens against the ball joint threads. I used an impact gun to get it good and tight. One side pulled right out with a little pop, the other side I had to wack (hard on) the top of the puller (while its under alot of tension) to get the camber sleeve to pop and break free.
Good luck
Good luck
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From: Denver Metro Area, CO
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Thanks men. I finally got it to break loose. Broke a hammer in the process. Guess I need a bigger BFH or gotta start hitting the weights. Took me four hours before she finally came apart for me. I've replaced ball joints before & was getting to the point where I thought I was doing something wrong & thought I'd check w/ the FTE experts to make sure.
Thanks again
Thanks again
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