Ball Joint Replacement

By Neil (geetee)

Introduction

Got a knocking noise at the front of the car? Good chance its a lower balljoint that needs to be replaced!

Instructions

1. First you need to jack the car up, make sure its safe and remove the wheel. Then give the balljoint bolts a good soak with WD40 or similar.




2. Undo the two nuts which hold the balljoint to the wishbone. Then undo the pinch bolt holding the ball stud to the steering knuckle.




3. Knock the pinch bolt out with a punch and hammer.




4. Remove the balljoint from the steering knuckle using a balljoint fork and hammer. Once its out give the area a clean.




5. Compare the old and new balljoints to make sure they are the same. Fit the ball stud first and then the wishbone bolts will go in easier. You may find you need a jack to raise the suspension strut slightly. The standard jack is ideal for this.




6. Tighten all nuts to the specified torque which is:
   
   Wishbone nuts - 69 to 86 lbs ft.
   Pinch bolt - 32 - 41lbs ft.