Ok - I'm doing that infamous job of changing out bot the upper ball and lower ball joints. I'm stuck on the step of separating the lower ball joint from the steering knuckle. It's jammed on tight. I've tried:

1. Hammering the sides with a sledge hammer.
2. A torch to heat it up.
3. Separator forks.
4. A ball joint removal too.

That lower ball joint is still on the knuckle and won't budge off. Any suggestions?

 

I use two 3 pound hammers... hold one against one side of the knuckle, where the joint goes thru, and SMACK the other side with the other hammer. Usually, two or three good hits, and it pops right off.

 

Thanks - I actually tried that too (along with PB Blaster). It's still a no go. I'm about to take it into the shop and unfortunately let them fix it for $1200.

I have a jack under the lower control arm lifting it up slightly. I wonder if that's a factor....

 

Well, you want the lower control arm supported in any event.... Don't want that feller floppin' about when you do break it loose.

Can you pound DOWN on the knuckle somewhere, and drive it off that way?

 

I've got those pickle forks and they aren't worth a damn. This cheap tool has paid for itself over an over. Works every time and doesn't damage the boots, if you care about them.

https://www.harborfreight.com/tie-ro...tie+rod+puller

 

Funny you mention using tie rod pullers. I remembered that I have some in storage and am going to try them later this week.