Some Lower Ball Joint Clarification..

[manticore33]

The vehicle is a 1996 Explorer XLT 4x4, and I am looking at doing the lower ball joints. I ordered the Moog replacement parts for the lowers (and uppers). I just need to know, is a puller necessary to remove the nuckle from the half-shaft once the axle nut is removed? Also, in the Haynes manual, it states the axle nut is not reusable, I was curious if this is bogus or not.

Thanks,

-Brett

P.S. If anyone is in Central Ohio... I am looking to borrow an electric impact wrench!

 

[JasonF]

I just took the axle nut off and was able to slide the drive shaft out once the upper ball joint was free. I reused the nut, but that doesn't necessarily mean that I wasn't supposed to replace it. I'd be curious to hear the official word on this.

Jason

 

[Skibug]

The word here on the axle nut is mostly that it can be re-used. But just use locktite on it and torque it to the right specs. I replaced my hubs and re-used the axle nut. The reason they say to not re-use it is because it is slightly egg shapped to keep it from backing off the threads over time. Torque it to the right specs and use some locktite and you should be fine. Some people don't re-use them. And if you don't feel safe re-using them, then don't.

 

[manticore33]

Thanks, I'll go ahead and reuse the nut. Looks like my project can start now.