Parts Needed:
* New lower ball joint
* Snap ring
* Grease
Tools Needed:
* floor jack
* Jack stands
* Wrench set
* Pliers
* Hammer
* Drift punch
Instructions:
NOTE: Always ensure the vehicle is stable and properly supported before working beneath it.
Disconnect the negative battery cable.
1. Raise the vehicle with the floor jack and then secure it with jack stands.
2. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel from the affected side.
3. Use the wrench to loosen the ball joint nut enough so that you can use the hammer to knock the nut loose from the taper. Don't allow the steering knuckle to rotate by placing a pry bar between it and the frame.
4. Use a set of pliers to remove the cotter pin from the castle nut on the ball joint stud.
5. Use the wrench to loosen the castle nut until the lower ball joint separates from the knuckle. Once loose, you may pull the knuckle assembly off of the ball joint stud.
6. Pry off the dust cap on the lower ball joint. There may be a snap ring securing the cap. Use pliers or a small screwdriver to remove it.
7. Position the ball joint separator tool's jaws at the lip right underneath the ball joint stud, and tighten the threaded screw in the middle of the tool until the ball stud pops loose from the steering knuckle.
8. Insert a drift punch into the hole just above the ball joint, and hammer the lower ball joint out towards the bottom of the control arm.
9. Inspect the hole carefully for any damage. If there are any significant dents or deformities, consider changing the control arm.
10. Press in the new ball joint.
You can use a hammer and appropriately sized socket, but consider buying or renting a ball joint press. Make sure the ball joint is seated properly.
11. Install the snap ring (if applicable) and dust cap.
12. Replace the castle nut and tighten it until it is snug. Install a new cotter pin.
13. Reconnect the negative battery cable and lower the vehicle.
