Lower Ball Joints - How to Install???

[Big T]

My lower ball joints have been in the freezer for at least two weeks while I rounded up the rest of the parts. Now I'm ready to intall. These are the press in ball joints.

Is there any installation order between lower vs upper?

Do I just use a jack to press in the lower ball joints in against the weight of the truck, then install the steering knuckle? Or do I install the lower ball joints on the knuckle, then jack that up into the lower arm?

 

[btfarm]

Do I just use a jack to press in the lower ball joints in against the weight of the truck, then install the steering knuckle?

That's always the way I've done it. Maybe someone else has a better idea.

 

[ak diesel driver]

ball joint c frame tool

 

[racer55]

Most tool stores/trucks have a ball joint press kit available as well as some rental places.The kit has the proper spacers to prevent damage when removing/installing balljoints.
The tool also doubles as a U-joint remover/installer.

 

[jrsavoie]

For ball joints the Snap on press is awesome. Makes the other presses look like weenies. A little pricy though about $200 on Ebay for a used kit

 

[racer55]

OTC make a good tool as well.

 

[Big T]

I did the low tech thing. 27mm impact socket over the stud. Jacked it up and then beat the arm down on it with a 3 lb hammer. The boot was a bitch. Used a 36mm socket over it and jacked that into place.

 

[fastjohnny]

Glad you got it. I've always used autozone's loan a tool.