How do you replace ball joints on 1997 e350?
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 1,414
Likes: 10
From: Thornhill , Ontario
I have had 6 Vans so far.....You need the Funkadelic Special E-series tool to remove the lower ball joint....I bought the Ball Joint Kit @ NAPA...plus the Funkadelic tool ...Then I had it Professionally aligned and they corrected the camber et.etc.etc. ....... I have always used the Factory Manuals BUT .......I think the nut is 27 mm...but I would have to check...could be 32 mm also....
I usually torque it to 22-25 ft-lbs and then back it off 1/8 of a turn ( 45 * Radially ).......then spin Rotor and hand tighten to nearest hole on crown nut........ then install Cotter Pin....
I usually torque it to 22-25 ft-lbs and then back it off 1/8 of a turn ( 45 * Radially ).......then spin Rotor and hand tighten to nearest hole on crown nut........ then install Cotter Pin....
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 1,414
Likes: 10
From: Thornhill , Ontario
http://www.summitracing.com/int/part...7825/overview/
And you will also need this .....http://www.summitracing.com/int/part...1550/overview/
And you will also need this .....http://www.summitracing.com/int/part...1550/overview/
Fleet Owner
Joined: Aug 2010
Posts: 21,255
Likes: 1,657
From: Reynoldsburg, Ohio
Blageurt's idea about 27 or32mm sounds about right---certainly not a 2 7/8"! 
I love the Ball Joint Remover Socket---for this type job it would be great to have. My guy didn't have anytime similar however his kit did have a selection of different diameter sleeves most common to ball joint servicing.
I think (and can be wrong) some parts retailers like AutoZone et al rent tools like the universal ball joint press. If this is just a one time job rental might be a better option, if its available in your area. Even so at $132 the linked kit isn't a budget killer.
I love the Ball Joint Remover Socket---for this type job it would be great to have. My guy didn't have anytime similar however his kit did have a selection of different diameter sleeves most common to ball joint servicing.
I think (and can be wrong) some parts retailers like AutoZone et al rent tools like the universal ball joint press. If this is just a one time job rental might be a better option, if its available in your area. Even so at $132 the linked kit isn't a budget killer.
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