CV and Ball Joint Installation

[Scotmo]

I am wondering if replacing my CV and ball joints on the front end of my 97 explorer is a job for the garage or a "take it to the shop job". I have replaced clutches, done brakes and many other mechanical things over the years but have never done this particular job. I am getting clicking and sqeeking noises from the left front. If I decide to do this at home(and I probably will). what kind of time and expense can I expect from this job. Thanks for your time and effort......Scot

 

[section525]

Welcome Scot! If you can do brakes then you can do CVs! I did one of mine a while back. Took less than an hour.

Here is a great write-up by Jefe about how to tear your front end apart. Good luck!

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?threadid=53863&highlight=CVs

 

[Opera House]

Figure about 3 hours per side. Not the thing I would do this weekend when it is zero. Lower ball joint is about $45 and you can get the press tie rod tool at the Zone. Involves some hefty beating.