Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safe vehicle lifting.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Ball joint separator: This is crucial for separating the ball joint from the knuckle. A pickle fork can work, but risks damaging the knuckle.
* Hammer: May be needed in conjunction with the ball joint separator.
* Socket wrench set: Various sizes, including metric.
* Torque wrench: To properly tighten bolts to manufacturer's specifications.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Pry bar: Might be helpful for leverage.
* New upper ball joint: Make sure you get the correct part for your specific Cherokee model.
* Grease: For the new ball joint.
* Safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from injury.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the wheels opposite the one you're working on. Raise the vehicle using the jack and securely support it with jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Disconnect the Brake Caliper: Depending on the brake design, you may need to unbolt and either hang the caliper out of the way or support it with a wire.
4. Disconnect the Sway Bar Link: Unbolt the sway bar link from the control arm.
5. Remove the Cotter Pin and Castle Nut: Locate the castle nut on the upper ball joint stud. Remove the cotter pin and then the castle nut.
6. Separate the Ball Joint: This is the most challenging step. Use the ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle. Apply penetrating oil beforehand to help loosen it. Work carefully and avoid damaging the knuckle.
7. Remove the Upper Control Arm Bolt(s): Remove the bolt(s) securing the upper ball joint to the control arm. These bolts can be stubborn due to rust, so use penetrating oil liberally and allow it to soak.
8. Remove the Old Ball Joint: The old ball joint should now be free.
9. Install the New Ball Joint: Grease the new ball joint thoroughly. Install the new ball joint into the control arm. Securely tighten the control arm bolts to the specified torque.
10. Reassemble: Install the ball joint into the steering knuckle, ensuring it is seated correctly. Install and tighten the castle nut to the correct torque. Insert the cotter pin.
11. Reconnect everything: Reinstall the sway bar link, brake caliper, and wheel. Lower the vehicle carefully.
12. Torque Check: Double-check all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer's specifications.
13. Test Drive: After reassembly, take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure everything is working correctly. Listen for any unusual noises.
Important Considerations:
* Rust: On older Jeeps, rust can make this job significantly more difficult. Be prepared to use extra penetrating oil and potentially more force.
* Pressing the Ball Joint: Some people prefer to use a ball joint press to remove and install the ball joint, providing a cleaner and safer method.
* Repair Manual: Obtain a repair manual for your specific 1992 Jeep Cherokee model. This will provide detailed diagrams and torque specifications crucial for a successful repair.
This is a complex job. If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your Jeep to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed ball joints can be dangerous.
