Ball Joints

[Ron Husak]

Hi All..
I am a common "Lurker" on the site just jumping inwhen I need help or advice..
I have a 97 sport with control trac and 170K. I have been told by my alignment tech that I need at least lower ball joints.. I have searched some and found some differing info.. Do the front half shafts have to come out? Do you need a ball joint press? Any BTDT would be most appreciated.
If I need a press what would you recommend? No local "free" loaner type shops available..
Thanks so much for your compliled wisdom..
Ron Husak
97 Sport
Conifer, Colorado

 

[ExplorerDMB]

No - the half shafts do not need to come out. You will need a press to get them in. Good luck

-Drew

 

[BrooklynBay]

Autozone lends out this kind of press, or you could get one from Harbor Freight.

 

[ExplorerDMB]

No local "free" loaner type shops available..

obviously he doesn't have access to these "freebies"

-Drew

 

[BrooklynBay]

Autozone does charge a deposit for lending it out, but that fee is refundable once you return the tool.

 

[Ron Husak]

Hi.. Thanks all for the replys..
What kind of Harbor frieght press?
Ron

 

[BrooklynBay]

They make several in the $40-$60 range. Just do a search on their website for ball joint, or U joint, and you will see them.

 

[Ron Husak]

Thanks for the reply..
So one doesn't work better than another?

 

[ma96782]

Try this:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=149449&highlight=ball+joint+tools

and checkout the imbedded thread too.

I bought the HF BJ Tool on sale was about than $30. It does U-joints too.

Aloha, Mark

PS.....I haven't used it yet.

 

[BrooklynBay]

Each kit they sell has a different amount of attachments for different purposes. The more expensive it is, the more it comes with. Some attachments you will probably never use on your vehicle, while others are a must have.

 

[ma96782]

Here is another thread using the HF Ball Joint tool on U joints.

http://www.stu-offroad.com/axle/ujoint1/u-joint-1.htm

Aloha, Mark

PS....HF SKU #38335

http://www.harborfreightusa.com/usa/itemdisplay/displayItem.do