Is it best to replace both ball joints?
A: Plenty of mechanics will recommend that you replace both the upper and lower ball joints at the same time. They may also recommend checking related components at the same time, such as the stud hole in the steering knuckle.
When do you replace ball joints can you just replace the ball?
If it is loose, then replace control arm. If it fits tight then you will need to remove the ball joint from control arm and see if a new ball joint will fit tight in the control arm or control arm still will need to be replaced.
Why is steering worse now with new ball joints than before?
One wheel was very difficult so I replaced those ball joints again on that side only and did not get it realigned. The steering is not as stiff as it was but the wheel still does not track back to center after a turn and doesn’t always track straight on the highway.
How to replace a steering knuckle hole in a soccer ball?
Guide the new joint through the knuckle hole. Slide the new rubber boot over the ball joint’s stud and guide the new ball joint back up through the steering knuckle hole, where it came from. 2 Bolt the joint into place using the hardware included.
How do you replace ball joint on McPherson strut?
Leave the castellated nut in place, just a few turns in to keep it in a safe place. If you’re working on a McPherson strut suspension remove the “pinch bolt” that clamps the ball joint stud. Pop loose the ball joint.
Can a ball joint be removed from a steering knuckle?
In most cases, a ball joint press and ball joint fork will be needed to remove the ball joint and separate the control arm from the steering knuckle, which both of these are available for free through AutoZone’s Loan-A-Tool program. For ball joints that are bolted on, simply unbolting the bolts will separate the joint from the control arm.
How to replace upper control arm ball joint?
Upper Ball Joint Replacement. This video will show you how to replace the Upper Control Arm Ball Joint on a Chevy Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, etc. Replacing a ball joint is fast and easy and can be done with basic hand tools and a ball joint press you can rent for free at your local parts store.
How do you replace a ball joint on a front wheel drive car?
Generally a job to replace ball joints will involve the following, but not exclusive to these steps: Taking off your vehicle’s wheels. Moving the brake calipers, and rotor. Some vehicles will need the sway bar links removed. Front wheel drive cars – in most cases, separate the lower control arm from the steering knuckle via a ball joint fork.
When do you need to replace a ball joint?
Gently pry and observe if the joint has slop or moves. If either of these 2 processes show slop in the joint, the joint will need to be replaced. If its determined that the joint is non-replaceable, then the entire control arm assembly will need to be replaced. Can You Replace Your Ball Joint?