lexsc3

I need to get the ball joint off the knuckle on the rear suspension. It is the big ball joint that is connected to the control arm that is connected to the shock. I tried the autozone tie rod puller tools, one was too small the other didnt go on straight enough and it tracked off the bolt after a while, I actually broke the second pulled when I tried to use a blow torch to heat up the area. If I can use a pickle fork to get it off, what size do I need? Any other tools that could help get it off?

good2go

iTrader: (6)

I've never actually had to use a fork. I always had good luck just backing up(supporting) the underside of the knuckle with a piece of steel rod or bar stock (wood will NOT work) onto a hard concrete slab below, and then just smack the top of the bolt sharply with a ball peen hammer a few times; just pops it right off when the force is all focused there on the ball joint.

MrBrock

I usually use a pitman arm puller.

bryan767

iTrader: (6)

^ yup those work very well for this. and are cheap as hell.

lexsc3

thats the exact one i broke. I couldnt get it to center though. I will try to get a different one or one with adjustable arms.

BartleDoo

iTrader: (1)

Good luck I was trying to replace control arm bushings yesterday and gave up on the ball joints and just took everything out together. It looked like those monkies in a barrel hanging off of my tie rod.

5sp_jzz30

iTrader: (2)

I use a nice MAC ball peen hammer and sometimes my air hammer. hasn't failed me yet. you hit the spindle and the the ball joint will pop out.

good2go

iTrader: (6)

.

shonuff53

iTrader: (3)

there is a three prong tool I forget what its called but its easy and works like a clamp, and it doesn't destroy ball joint boots.

RedPhoenix

iTrader: (10)

Air hammer on the spindle? basically the part thats holding the ball joint captive? Never thought that would work... but im always up for new ways to free LCA's from the spindle!

SChema

iTrader: (2)

Yea, a good hit with a ball peen hammer on the sleeve usually does the trick.