How do I separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle?
 

I am new to suspension work. How do I separate the ball joint from the knuckle without damaging the ball joint?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v6...psb8827bd0.jpg


Thanks

Re: How do I separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle?
 

I usually leave the top ball joint in the knuckle with the nut still on (just enough to hold it) then loosen the nut on the lower ball joint. Place one BFH on one side of the knuckle and strike the other side with another BFH a couple of times and it will pop loose. Just be sure you have LEFT THE NUTS ON! The spring can come out and do some damage if this is not done. (ask me how I know this)

Re: How do I separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle?
 

Either the dual hammer method above or a ball joint seperator. NOT a pickle fork if you want to reuse the ball joint.

Re: How do I separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle?
 

Yes. Jack up the lca and put the top back together (need not be 100% tight, just put the stud in the hole and spin the nut on a few turns). Then loosen the lower nut a few turns, lower the jack so the spring puts some put pressure on it, and beat on the spindle near the stud hole with a BFH. A couple of sharp whacks will pop it loose and you can jack the LCA up again, take the nuts off, and pull the spindle off. The hammer method will work on the rod ends and the upper BJ too. Don't bang on the stud or you could wreck the ball/socket and/or the threads.

Re: How do I separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle?
 

Thanks guys, I appreciate the help! Once I figured out where to wack the knuckle, the tie rod end popped right off. I will do as suggested for the lower ball joint.


I am going to try to get the spring out tomorrow as well.

Re: How do I separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle?
 

You know how to get the spring out without needing new teeth and a nose job right?
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Re: How do I separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle?
 

That's a good question. I am using the Haynes manual which recomends using a chain wrapped around the spring to keep it from flying out. Obviously there is some potential energy in that spring. I was hoping I could put the jack under it and slowly release the pressure without putting the spring through myself or the neighbors house.

Re: How do I separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle?
 

Yeah a chain wrapped around the spring and the jack will work fine,Just go slow and the spring will pop sometimes but the chain keeps it from flying out.

Re: How do I separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle?
 

Use a chain for sure. Loop it through the LCA and the spring, and the jack if you can and secure it with a bolt & nut through the links. Do this and you'll likely survive without a scratch.

Re: How do I separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle?
 

A rachet strap through the spring and LCA works decent, too.