How hard to change ball joints?

[Goonbery]

I've got a horrible vibration at 70 mph and from reading on here, it's pretty likely the ball joints. I'm just wondering how hard of a job this is, and what all is involved?

I did most of the work on my Camaro SS, but the Explorer is new territory. Any hints or suggestions?

Also I found replacement lower ball joints at Checker Auto Parts for $40 a piece with a lifetime warranty. Are these any good? Thanks for the help.
Jeff

 

[jimbo74]

the checker ones are probably fine..... it depends on your ability and skill as to how hard they are..... i just did an engine swap and a clutch on my lil yota, but i have never actually done balljoints..... i have helped several other peopel do balljoints at my work though, however, an air chisel was always involved and most people, dont have one or access to one

 

[Goonbery]

As long as it's pretty straight forward, take this part out and replace it with the new part, I should be ok. I installed longtube headers, cat-back exhaust, full suspension, an entire rearend, intake manifold, etc. on my SS, but I've never owned an Explorer. Just wondering what all was involved with the swap?
Jeff

 

[etc]

Pretty easily on 2wd with a balljoint press. I've heard the cv joints on 4wd/awd get in the way of the balljoint press. If you know what your doing you could probably get it done in about 4 hours on 2wd.

As always I link to this, cause it's the only major repair I've done

http://www.haroh.com/explorer/ball_joint.html

 

[Mike]

moving this to the correct forum. this does not belong in EXPLORER 911. please read the posting guide lines before posting..

thanks,

Mike

 

[Opera House]

With 4WD you havr to remove all the brake assembly and unbolt the bearing hubs. Put jackstand on frame and use floor jack to move lower control arm. With some bungee cords and a little creativity the lower ball joint can be removed and installed without removing anything else although the half shaft can be just popped out. With the C ball joint press, tighten it and then give it a little tap to get it moving. Give lube a little time to work.