Ball Joints

[Gus350]

Just starting the front end on my 68 PO put a front end from a 84-85. I'm going to add drop spindals and new springs for a 4.5 drop. Just figured while I was there replace the ball joints I've done top one's before but never bottom qustion is how hard are they and do I need to take afram all the way off thanks for the help and addvice.

Kevin
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[jondancer]

going through the same thing right now, just picked up all four moog ball joint for about 200bucks. hope they were worth it

[lolife99]

You can borrow/rent a lower ball joint press from most auto parts stores.
This eliminates the need to remove the a-arm from the truck.

[Gus350]

Thanks Keith could also explain what all I need to cut off the lower arm like on the bump stop I saw a pic once but didn't get it all?

Thanks Kevin
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[lolife99]

Originally Posted by Gus350

Thanks Keith could also explain what all I need to cut off the lower arm like on the bump stop I saw a pic once but didn't get it all?

Thanks Kevin
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You need to trim the lip off the front and back side of the a-arm,... about 1" back.
I usually trim the bumpstop bracket if I' using a 2"-3" drop spring, or air bag.

When you are done,... you will still need to mount your wheels and turn both directions to verify no rubbing issues.
(all of this only applies to 15" wheels with more than 3.5" of backspacing)
15x8 ralley wheels have 4" of backspacing.
What wheels are you using?

[Gus350]

Thanks that's it I'll be using rallies till I can get some 20's this is alot of help my truck is in a million peices and I think I'll need lots of help from this board to get it back together haha
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[jondancer]

so do you cut that area off from the front or the rear of the a-arm. does everyone do this?
thanks

[lolife99]

I trim both sides,... if I plan on using a 15" wheel with more than 3.5" of backing.
(i.e. 15x8 truck ralley wheel)

[lolife99]

Originally Posted by jondancer

so do you cut that area off from the front or the rear of the a-arm. does everyone do this?
thanks

This is only neccessary with drop spindles.
I always do it.
Even if I plan on running 20" wheels,... you never know when you have to put on a smaller wheel.

[jondancer]

do you just use a grinder to grind it down? trying to get everything ready before i start this project

[lolife99]

I have a 4-1/2" grinder with a thin (1/32") cut-off wheel.
Then I switch to a "Z" disc or grinder disc, to clean up the cuts.
Take no more than 15-20 minutes per side.