If you're not comfortable with advanced automotive repair, take it to a qualified mechanic. This is not a DIY project for someone lacking experience.
However, if you're determined to proceed, here's a *general* overview of the process. Remember this is not a comprehensive guide and specific steps might vary slightly depending on the year and model of your Windstar. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle.
* Wheel chocks: Crucial for safety.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Ball joint separator: To separate the ball joint from the control arm. A pickle fork is NOT recommended as it can damage the control arm. A ball joint press is ideal.
* Torque wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Sockets and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed.
* Hammer: Possibly needed for some parts of the separation process.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): To help loosen rusted or seized components.
* Shop rags: For cleaning.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Always protect yourself.
* Repair manual specific to your Windstar's year and model: Absolutely essential for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
General Steps (Highly Simplified):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Lift and Secure: Safely lift the Windstar using a jack and secure it with jack stands. Remove the wheel.
3. Disconnect Components: Disconnect the brake caliper, sway bar link, and any other components attached to the control arm that might interfere with ball joint removal.
4. Separate Ball Joint: This is the most challenging part. Use a ball joint separator (not a pickle fork!) to carefully separate the ball joint from the control arm. Penetrating oil will help.
5. Remove Control Arm (Often Necessary): In many cases, the entire control arm needs to be removed to replace the ball joint, as some ball joints are pressed into the control arm and not easily replaced individually.
6. Install New Ball Joint (or Control Arm): Install the new ball joint (or the entire new control arm assembly) following the instructions in your repair manual. Pay close attention to proper alignment.
7. Reassembly: Reassemble all disconnected components in the reverse order of removal. Make sure everything is properly aligned.
8. Torque Specifications: Tighten all bolts to the manufacturer's specifications using a torque wrench. Failure to do this can lead to premature wear or failure.
9. Lower Vehicle: Slowly lower the vehicle.
10. Test Drive: Carefully test drive the vehicle to check for any unusual noises or handling issues.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Attempting this repair without a repair manual and significant mechanical experience is strongly discouraged. Improperly installed ball joints can lead to loss of control and serious injury. Professional help is strongly recommended.
