I need to do the ball joints (upper and lower) on my truck, and a U-joint. Can I do this myself, I am rather mechanically inclined. Do I need and special tools, I am scared to damage the inner axle seals.

2001 ram 1500 4x4.

Any help would be great.


Chris

 

I'm like you CCDMADER, mechanically inclined but not a mechanic (nor do I want to be...no patience). I took mine to a local shop and had themreplace the ball joints on my '01. They fought them and finally got it done but THEY screwed up the seal and had to go back in to fix that. Truck was in the shop for a week if I remember right. If I had done that I would have been really upset with myself. There are special tools needed, someone more knowledgeable can chime in on that. I'm gladI hired mine done and would do the same next time. Tough job unless you've done it before.

 

my ball oints were replaced a few weeks ago. they fought with the lower joint on both sides i think. it was in and out in a few hours. they did have to use a special tool which is designed for ball joint work. ask your local auto store like advanced discount or something if they have the tool. be careful though when doing it. they are splined and you dont want to mess the teeth up on it. good luck.

 

You just need a ball joint press and regular tools. Its pretty easy, I say do it yourself, it'll raise your confidence

 

I am not all to concerned with the removal of the ball joints, more the problem of removing the front axle. I have had the innerseals done twice (warranty) first time I am positive it was because they replaced both U-joints in the front end, therefore disturbing the inner axle seal. I know I have to remove the axles to get the ball joints out.this is thepart I am concerned with, if I F&^* up the innerseal I don't think I can do this job myself.

Any experience from anyone?


Chris