Installing ball joints

460 Views 8 Replies 7 Participants Last post by Irondog, Oct 25, 2006

xrevx

Discussion Starter · Oct 9, 2006

swapping to summit a-arms and was able to get ball joints out of the old arm, but how in the h#ll do you get them into the new arms...

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redbull660

· #2 · Oct 9, 2006

stick the ball joint in your freezer for about 20 minutes. This will cause it to shrink a little bit, then tap it in

xrevx

Discussion Starter · #3 · Oct 9, 2006

tried that and they only went about 1/2 way in.
can they take hard hits to the bolt side

Plush

· #4 · Oct 15, 2006

Use a hydraulic press to mount it in the A-arm.

transporter

· #5 · Oct 25, 2006

Plush said:
Use a hydraulic press to mount it in the A-arm.

But what do you use with the press? A socket isn't goig to fit.
I am in the same fix.
Anyone doo this with out the doo tools?

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Plush

· #6 · Oct 25, 2006

transporter said:
Use a hydraulic press to mount it in the A-arm.

But what do you use with the press? A socket isn't goig to fit.
I am in the same fix.
Anyone doo this with out the doo tools?

[/quote]

Well... I used a socket.... however... I got the big box of sockets up to 72mm.

If you haven't got a socket.... try to find a proper piece of pipe that fits over it.

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REV RUNNER

· #7 · Oct 25, 2006

Doo makes specific tools for both the removal and installation of the lower ball joint to the A-arm. You may want to check with your dealer and either order them (or possibly borrow them for an evening . . .). I've removed and installed many of these, and I believe the specific tools need to be used to prevent damage to the ball joint. There is a ball joint removal tool, ball joint installation tool, and ball joint support. They are basically some pieces of specially sized tubing that allow you to place the assembly into a vice and carefully remove or install these joints.

gade girl

· #8 · Oct 25, 2006

Hubby has done a few....used an appropriate size old socket and hammer to drive out...When installing, removed the ball joint rubber boot, and used appropriate sized sockets and a vise to press into the A arm. The reinstalled the boot.
One of our sleds is presently apart getting the A arms P coated.

Irondog

· #9 · Oct 25, 2006

If you have a decent dealer - they will do it for you at no charge.

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