Need a diagram of the lower suspension assembly
The diagrams you need are in the factory repair manuals, you can download them HERE for a small fee.
SOURCE: how do i replace a offside front lower suspension arm ball joint
You need to get or rent a ball joint splitter, maybe $20? or so to buy. Some parts stores (autozone does this, one reason i recommend them, but other stores may also) will rent you some tools for "free" when you buy parts there .. they take a big deposit in case you bolt ... but give it all back for return of the tool in good condition.
It's easy ... if you know how to work on suspension .. if not, get a Haynes manual for your car from part store, amazon or haynes.com for around $20, the blood and busted knuckles you save due to reading it will be worth the money ;~).
SOURCE: repair lower ball joints
The front lower ball joints are pressed into the steering knuckle. Once the brake components are removed, the CV shaft nut and tie rod ends can be removed. Remove the front strut bolts, and the lower ball joint nut. Separate the lower arm from the ball joint. Once the knuckle assembly is off the car remove the lower joint snap ring and dust boot. Utilizing a ball joint press (should be able to rent from local parts store) press the joint out of the knuckle. Re-installation is naturally reverse of removal. I hope this helps.
SOURCE: CV joint replacement
Generally no tool is required. If you use a "pickle fork" you will risk damaging the dust boot.
Have you tried whacking the spindle right near where the ball joint stud comes through? This will take a few good shots to break it loose.
Be careful not to hit the threads!
SOURCE: 2000 lincoln ls bad ball joints! should i replace whole knuckle or just ball joints
yes you can buy just the ball joints
SOURCE: upper and lower ball joints
Jack the truck clear of the ground and let the wheel assembly hang. After you remove the tire place your jack under the lower control arm so it's firm. Remove the cotter pin, if you have one and loosen the big nut almost off. Wedge a "pickle fork" between the control arm and the spindle and give it a belt with a hammer until the ball joint pops. Raise the jack so you can undo the nut easily and separate the control arm and spindle.
The upper ball joint is riveted or bolted in. Grind the rivets or use a cold chisel and remove the ball joint. Clean up the area with some sandpaper, dirt , loose rust, etc.and put the new joint in. Put the spindle back on using the jack if necessary and put the nut back on and tighten.
The lower ball joint is pressed in. Tie the spindle out of the way and brace the lower control arm with some blocks or the jack if you have to. A few whacks with a hammer should pop the joint out. Clean the hole out lightly, just to remove loose rust and dirt. Put the ball joint, minus the grease fitting ,,in the hole and use the jack with a block of wood, to put it in place.You may have to fiddle with the spindle to make sure it is lined up. I've never had any trouble using a 1ton trolley jack and the weight of the truck to put the lower ball joint back in. Replace the nut and grease fitting.
The new ball joints will probably come with cotter pins, use them. Make sure the new joints are tight or they will wear the holes in the spindle. Don't forget to grease the new joints. Hope this helps.
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If you need a diagram, to break loose a ball joint,you shouldn't be doing that kind of work
I didn't need it to break it apart, I needed to look at the diagram, but thanks for your help, er, smart comment.
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