Hi,

Well I have a 2000 ZR2 Blazer 4x4 with the factory installed riveted ball joints on it, Its time to replace them and I was hoping somebody with previous experiance in the forums might be willing to share the step by step methods in doing so, so I dont get started and possably open a can of worms here. I just replaced the passenger side front hub bearing the other day and noticed that the CV shaft didnt want to pull out of the axel housing, maybe I didnt pull hard enough, or maybe it has a C clip retainer on the inside? I dont have a manual but it seems like it would be in the way of a Ball Joint replacement job, Or is there an easyer method? I know Im going to need to grind or chisle the old rivets off but Im more concerned with the proper steps involved with replacing all 4 of the joints. A how 2 explination would be greatly appretiated and would save me the cost of a manul =). Thanks and Happy New Year [sm=icon_cheers.gif]

Well, here's my method of replacement:

Lift and support front end of vehicle
Remove both front wheels
Unbolt and support the brake caliper without stressing or kinking the brake line
Remove the rotor
Remove the axle nut
Press the drive axle out of the bearing
Remove the ball joint castle nuts
Pop the ball joints loose from the steering knuckle
Suspend the steering knuckle out of the way
Drill/Grind/Chisel the rivets out of the control arms ensuring that you do not damage the control arm***
Install the new ball joints - make sure that the grease zerks are installed so that they can be serviced with minimal work once everything is reassembled
Reinstall everything else


***Damage to the control arms could cause them to break prematurely causing loss of control and possibly resulting in a vehicle accident.