LexIS03300

Hello,
I have an IS 300 2003 & having a problem taking off the lower ball joints. I have taken off the castle nut, pin and 2 screws off the ball joint, driver's side. I loosened the castle nut on the tie rod end, took off the pin as well. I have used a pickle fork, ball joint separator & the ball joint does not move. A friend recommends for me to hammer the stud from underneath? Would that be the correct way to take the lower ball joint? As I mentioned before, I loosened both of the castle nuts but did not remove them completely. I did not use the pickle fork on the connecting tie rod end, should I have loosened it? I am all over it but just need to know what the best way is to remove the lower ball joint? I purchased 2 Moog brand ball joints, I hear they are a good brand. They are greasable & my mechanic friend said that is what he recommends. Please let me know your thoughts and thank you in advance.

John T AKA JT

pmezo33

Just whack the knuckle with a heavy hammer until it pops.