Try to make this short, trying to replace my ball joints. Steering knuckle is stuck, gonna try a BFH tomorrow (got to buy one) but are there any other tricks/tips anyone can provide with getting past this? Or even the ball joints once I get to that point?
Stuck steering knuckle tricks?
- Thread starter DWR
- Start date
Saw a video from YouTube of course, maybe on here. This was for an installation but it might be used on removal. They used their jack under the ball joint to add pressure and then whacked the knuckle with a bfh. Made it slide in real easy.
You just need a bfh. I did this job last year and I only had a regular claw hammer which couldn't get the knuckle loose. I went and bought a 48 oz mini sledge that had the knuckle off in like 2 smacks.
The right tools make all the difference.
The right tools make all the difference.
It only ever takes a few whacks with a BFH. If you were not using a BFH to begin with, then you're doing it incorrectly.
For the ball joints, make sure you have the Jeep/Dodge adapters that will make the job not a nightmare. It's typically pretty easy as long as you have those.
For the ball joints, make sure you have the Jeep/Dodge adapters that will make the job not a nightmare. It's typically pretty easy as long as you have those.
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https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/...pecialty-products-ball-joint-press/spp0/72509
Using this kit from orielly, you think I’m good with that? What’s different with the jeep/dodge adaptors?
That is just the press. The Jeep and dodge adapters are specific to Jeep and Dodge and matching the angles of the inner c so that the press presses the ball joints straight. If the press is mounted to the inner C using its stock cups, the press will not press straight on the joints.
Ok, a 4lb BFH got the knuckle off. Took a good few whacks but it finally came off. Not to just get the old ball joints out and new ones in.
Could you explain this more in depth? I may have to go this route seeing as I’m already in it.
Need to press in at angle. Default cups from loaner tool are not angled. Stack washers under one side of cup to get desired angle.
Knock off:
Ball Joint Service Adapter Fit... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DJ5JTW7?tag=wranglerorg-20
Original:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002SRGW0?ref=cm_sw_r_cso_cp_apin_dp_2ZCQEMR58VP65A2446G4_1&ref_=cm_sw_r_cso_cp_apin_dp_2ZCQEMR58VP65A2446G4_1&social_share=cm_sw_r_cso_cp_apin_dp_2ZCQEMR58VP65A2446G4_1&titleSource=avft-a&previewDoh=1
CJ with a TJ
TJ Enthusiast
I'll be tackling the BJ's soon, here's the adapters that I'm looking at... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FVS1RHJ?tag=wranglerorg-20
I'm going to pair it with this kit, looks beefy, so I can use it for pressing bushings and U Joints in the future... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00061SGZO?tag=wranglerorg-20
Ujoints can easily be installed/removed with a BFH and a socket.
CJ with a TJ
TJ Enthusiast
That kit says "Set includes all the receiver tubes and removing/installing adapters needed to work on press-fit upper and lower ball joints on most GM, Ford, and Dodge 2 and 4 wheel drive pickups, vans and sport utility vehicles".
So maybe it already has the Jeep/Dodge adapters?
I'm listening!!!
A press or balljoint tool can bend the ears on the yoke/shafts.
Using a ballpeen, you can strike just below the ears multiple times (not a lot of effort either) and the ujoint cap will walk right out. Installing new caps, a few light taps will drive the cap on straight every time.
I find it easier than trying to handle an axle shaft or driveshaft while simultaneously handling a press and ratchet
CJ with a TJ
TJ Enthusiast
These mutha'effers were not coming out easily, hours with a BFH and an impact socket as a press. I'm still traumatized.
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