I have an 02 4x4 with a bad lower ball joint can any one tell me if the ball joints replaceable or i have to replace the whole lower arm. Thanks

 

you can replace the balljoint, but you have to grind the rivets out and its best to rent a bj press to do that job

 

Hehe, bj press.

 

checked on that,they're press in for that application.

 

I have a 2000 Durango and I changed both my lower ball joints. All u have to do is rent one of those big presses from advanced auto and press the old one out and press the new one in. Took about 1.5 hours. After we figured out how to set the press up.

 

There are no rivets to grind out on the lowers, but you will need a press tool which you can rent for free at advance auto. Lowers are a pain compared to uppers, be prepared to the that axel nut off too. I just whack the knuckle down with a sleghammer to get the uppers and lowers free from the knuckle.

 

On the OEM Lower Ball Joint there is a smashed rim on the back of the joint. If you grind it off they will pop right out. On the new ball joint is a lock ring to lock it in to place.

You want to ensure the grease holes are lined up so it can be greased.


The Upper Ball Joints are riveted on (OEM) the steering knuckle if the ball joints have never been replaced. You have to grind off the rivets and the new ball joints have 3 bolts and nuts to replace the rivets.

 

The grease holes shouldn't matter because the lowers have a groove going around the entire ball joint housing that will route it, but lining the holes up closely will help getting it in the joint eaiser with less pressure.