I'm in the process of installing a 3" Skyjacker suspension lift and I'm having trouble disconnecting the upper end of the track bar from the frame. I've got the lower end (at the axle bracket) loose but the upper end is REALLY tight. There's a nut with cotter pin that's easy enough to remove, but I can't seem to press the ball stud out. I've already broken one puller trying to get it out. Is there a trick???

I'd really appreciate any help. Thanks.

 

Pickle fork and a BFH!

 

My friend just replaced his track bar and it was a PITA to remove also. the worse part was getting the ball joint part to line up after putting the new one in. We ended up jacking up the front and putting it on jackstands behind the front wheels (the frame). after that took the jack out, and had someone start up the truck and turn the wheel back and fourth while hitting with a hammer. Just hitting it while the wheel wasnt moving wasnt working, so we gave it a shot while it was moving with the nut off, and she came right out when we hit the right spot. good luck!

pcfixerpro

 

Usually I just beat on the trac bar bracket with a big hammer.
I'll give to a tip to line it all back up. With the wheel on the ground and the ball-joint end connected, have a buddy torque the steering wheel over and the body willshift to one side and allow you to get the bolt in the axle.

 

I just did this a few weeks ago. What the others have said is correct. You will need a pickle fork and a BFH. After you get it loose have someone move the wheel back and forth and it should just fall out. Then when you put the new one on you will need to do the same thing. Put the axle end in the holder,put the ball joint end in the whole and have someone movethe wheel back and forth. When you get the bolt through the hole enough screw the nut on. You may have to "coach" the other end for the holes to match up then get the bolt in that end. Then torque away. When you torque the balljoint it willdraw it in more and seat it.

 

Thanks everyone. I'll pick up a pickle fork either tomorrow or Wednesday and let you know how it goes.

 

Harbor Freight has a great deal on a fork tool set. Not the greatest quality tools, but adequate for the average back yard mechanic. When I did my track bar, I used a baby sledge and a 5/8' diameter, 8" long steel rod extension, it helped me have better control of how I swang the hammer.Kept it as straight as possible so that I wouldnt bend the bolt end. After a few good wacks it popped free.