Hey guys, got a question for you.

I was under the truck inspecting the suspension to find a rattle I have when I hit a bump. Anyway, i noticed the dust boots are badly cracked on all 4 ball joints, which means I might be replacing them soon.

I was checking out rockauto, and noticed that the 2wd and 4wd ball joints are different in that the 2wd's have a flange that is held on by 3 and 4 massive "rivets"

The replacements use bolts which can be tightened, but how do I get the rivets out? My first thought is angle grinder them flat and punch them out with a hammer and bolt. Then i should be able to remove the ball joint correct?

 

Use an air hammer with a flat spade bit (sharpen when needed) an hit the rivit head on angle with a wiggle motion when u get a bite under it (careful not to gouge the control arm) and bam head will shoot off (careful wear safty glasses) then u can punch rivet through or repeat on other side.

 

No air hammer available, any other suggestions?

 

thats weird my 95 don't have rivets. but many way im have a hard time picture it so.... but do you think you can drill them out

 

drilling take forever and ur arms hurt and u cuss alot but sure it can be done.have had great success with the air hammer.took me 3 hrs to drill one side and 15 mins with hammer and sharp bit.

 

the mechanic 33- Were you using good quality, sharp drill bits and oil?

 

Actually, If I use the angle grinder on the side with the flange it shouldn't matter, since there's a new flange on the new ball joints, damage doesn't really matter.

 

titanium nitride with a drill doctor. Yea u could grind then drill i suppose.