I went to try and replace my lower ball joints today and my only problem was getting the steering knuckle off to get access to the LBJ.

The half shaft is in the way and I have no idea how to remove or and get it out of the way.

Has anyone done this and suggest what to do or how to do it?

I also have directions but they dont seem to be specific enough on what I need to do. Thanks

 

Ive seen guys who have heated up the shaft and knocked it out but being I dont have one myself, I really cant offer any more than that. Do a search as I know I have seen guys ask before. Sorry I dont have any of those thread bookmarked though.

 

remove axle nut.leave nut on at end so you dont damage threads but stay focus and dont damage the nut.Brake the axle shaft loose with hammer. Remove outer tie rod end.You might half to remove sway bar link. Removed the upper ball joint nut and separated the steering knuckle and upper ball joint. Roll the knuckle out and forward or backward what ever gives more room ,axle should fall out of the hub.Remove lower ball joint nut separate.
hope all helps. Just did upper and lower ball joints.Get Moog.

 

That sounds simple enough. I had upper ball joint out of the knuckle and tie rod end yesterday and was stumped on the half shaft. Next time I work on it Im going to try that. Thanks and I bought Moog lower ball joints and did my outer tie rod ends with them as well.

Btw did you put a whole new upper control arm in for your upper ball joints or did you press them outta there? I heard that they were sealed in.

 

Forgot to add, but did you also have to knock out any rivets or bend any tabs on the ball joints? I heard sometimes people had to.

 

Upper Ball joint, yes I replaced upper control arm. Take out your wheel well so you have easy access.Also torque up the upper control arm with suspension settled .I mean with tires on and on the ground to you dont torque your bushings at a jacked up position ,you will be able to torque up bolts with wheel well out. Bottom ball joint you just pound out threw the bottom.Remove snap ring 1st if it has one. Walk in the park simple job..
You will need a front alignment after all work is complete..
hope all helps.

 

Thanks for the great info, straight to the point and descriptive

Ill have to see how it goes when I tackle it next week.