alright i just changed my front springs n struts but when i used teh picklefork to release the lower ball joint it tears the rubber bushing which cant be escaped. i got a new rubber seal :-) dont ask how.. and i just read that to put it in i need to take my entire lower control arm to a machine shop to have it hydraulically pressed out. is there any way anyone knows to avoid this because that is going to be difficult and time consuming. any help i will appreaciate. thanks
chris

 

I'd personally use this time to install new ball joints. They are around 20 bucks each.

To remove: Use a BIG hamer and pound the, as we say in Texas, ever-last-livin-crap out of the ball joint and it will pop out.

Install: Autozone rents an install tool to install them - you have to have a tool or press to install them. The Autozone tool allows you to leave the lower A-arms on the car.

Ryan

 

yea they have a tool to do it with the control arm in the car put it was a PITA for me so i just pulled the control arm and had them pressed in and out! but then again i also have tubular a-arms so that made it easier as well

 

Next time use a puller. GM designed a special puller tool for separating the balljoints, but you can use a gear puller like this to separate it without any damage.

You can rent a balljoint press from Autozone and press them out at home. Also if you ever have to replace them I HIGHLY recommend using GM balljoints instead of aftermarket.

 

yea but hes trying to REPLACE THEM not just pull the steering knuckle from them

 

I have a write-up and pictures in my sig of how I did it. Fairly easy if you just make up your own way of doing it like I learned / did. Good luck.

~John

 

i have one of those pullers too, to use the pulley puller never ocurred to me now im kinda pissed. i have to have to drive an hr and a half so my cuz can use the hydraulic press at his work to get the joints out and put in the new rubber sleeves!!!!