2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Lower Ball Joint

[LandShark]

Is it possible to remove (and replace) the passenger side lower ball joint without removing the hub assembly, bearing and axel? I have a small amount of play in just the lower ball joint which I discovered using a pry bar under the tire with the truck jacked up about 2" off the ground. Any advice appreciated.

 

[wtfd6]

I really doubt it. how would you get the ball joint press into there? I dont know how that would be possible. how would you get the ball joint out of the knuckle?

 

[wildmanben]

not possible

 

[LandShark]

One more question. Is it possible to replace the lower ball joint without removing the upper joint? I'm thinking of just replacing the bad lower ball joint.

 

[wildmanben]

Its possible, but you might as well do the upper while you are in there due to the labor involved to get at them. Might as well do it right the first time instead of 2 times.

 

[n7gxz]

Also put it in 4x4 before you remove the axle. This will keep from dropping the sliding collar in the CAD.



Kevin

 

[LandShark]

Also put it in 4x4 before you remove the axle. This will keep from dropping the sliding collar in the CAD.



Kevin

Kevin: Thanks for the tip. I had read about putting it in 4wd but didn't know why.



wildmanben: It makes sense to do both upper and lower as long as it's apart, except I've read about a couple of ball joints that have failed after 10,000 miles or less. My gut says to leave a tight ball joint be. Still thinking about this. The hubs came off easy at 40,000 miles (10 years ago), when a dealer in north Canada replaced both axle u-joints.



It's interesting that some truck owners have to beat and torch the hubs for hours or days, and some have no problem taking them off. The Dodge manual describes the removal in just a few lines: Remove the axle, remove 4 backing bolts and then remove the unit bearing. Like it should take 5 minutes! We'll see.

 

[proflow]

Mine was the torch method unfortunately. Be carefull & use eye protection etc. if you end up in this position. Why do I say that ? Because the freek'n ball joint got hot enough to explode. Not cool. I was using the correct puller & Ive been in the auto bis. for 20 plus yrs & never would have expected that. I see why shops get about 5hrs a side . Best of luck--Proflow

 

[wtfd6]

I had to cut one of my lowers out also. I didnt like that. especially since it is mounted in the axle housing.

 

[proflow]

You know what, the more I think about that particular day in hell, Id like to suggest making it someone elses problem. This is comming from someone who does all mods & maintenence to own truck. I hate trusting anyone touching my rig. Although I think this one is an exception. Unless you need a good punishment. The other guy gets paid, & you dont get upset. Just my opinion--Proflow