Ball joints

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Mar 25, 2006 | 04:46 PM

critterscott

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Mar 2006

Posts: 9

Likes: 0

Ball joints

It has been a while since I have replaced ball joints,every thing is off the spindle but I can not get ball joints to come out.They released from the axle arms front plate.I used what I call a fork tool to release them , do I have to press them out or will they hammer out?I removeed the retainer clip on the bottom , this is a 4 wheel drive 79.Any help would be appreciated

Mar 25, 2006 | 09:33 PM

velcro7279

Tuned

Joined: Oct 2003

Posts: 446

Likes: 4

From: Grayling, MI

I've done it a few times. Never tried to hammer them out though. Used to borrow a Mac ball joint press from a friend of mine. I then got one from Harbor Freight for like $35. Works great. You may even be able to rent one or maybe get one to use from someplace like AutoZone. I guess they let you use tools probably if you buy the parts from them. The ones I have done have pressed out pretty easily with a little hammering on the screw of the press after you get some pressure on it. I have done a couple of sets on Dana 44's and on the Dana 60 in my 95 F 350. You will also need something to tighten the tapered collar for the top ball joint. The tool looks like a small spindle nut socket with four prongs on it. Hope this helps you. Good luck.

Steve

Mar 25, 2006 | 09:50 PM

critterscott

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Mar 2006

Posts: 9

Likes: 0

Thanks Steve,

I kinda thought that they needed pressed,I will have to go into town and see what I can do.

Chris

Mar 26, 2006 | 05:50 AM

IB Tim

FTE Leadership Emeritus

Joined: Jan 2003

Posts: 161,999

Likes: 75

From: 3rd Rock

...Welcome Chris to Ford Truck Enthusiasts!

We are happy you have chosen the best source for Fords.

Enjoy FTE....and
JOIN CLUB FTE -SUPPORT THE FORUMS!
…..See you on the boards.

Mar 26, 2006 | 06:04 AM

1979FordF250

Junior User

Joined: Jan 2004

Posts: 58

Likes: 0

If you have a secure vice, a lump hammer, and some pieces of pipe you dont need a press. The important part is not to mushroom the hole in the process. Ive done many this way with success. They will take a good beating to get out. When you put the new ones in, use a piece of pipe that is either the same diameter of or slightly smaller than the ball joint. Make sure the holes are free of debris and apply some white grease or other lubricant to help installation. Good Luck

Mar 26, 2006 | 09:23 PM

critterscott

Thread Starter

New User

Joined: Mar 2006

Posts: 9

Likes: 0

I appreciate the advice, it worked well.Would you have a suggestion about how to get the race out that holds the needle bearings in front of bearing out that is on the spindle assembley?Thisis on a 4x4

thanks Chris

Mar 26, 2006 | 09:37 PM

tjay460

Senior User

Joined: Apr 2004

Posts: 297

Likes: 0

From: Spokane, WA

I do not understand what bearing you are talking about. If you are talking about the needle bearings that support the axle where it passes through the spindle, I use an internal puller attachment on a slide hammer.