Trying to fix loud clunk in front axle assembly-Suspect it is upper/lower ball joints.

Need help in proper sequence to replace upper and lower ball joints. Do you have to pull axle assembly out with hub and does the brake caliper need to be removed. Any replacement brand to use or not to use?
Thanks in advance

 

Getting ready to do mine too. Hopefully someone will provide some insight. If not I'll let you know what I run into.

 

On the 4x4 you should be able to leave the calipers in place. As for brands, I've always found MOOG to be good quality.

 

Moog, Napa blue and Power Performance seem to be the choice of most. Can't really help you as when I replace mine, I rebuilt the entire front end to include the UCA/LCA bushings. So, I had to remove everything.

I'm fairly certain you can replace them without having to remove the caliper and rotor. Just make sure you have the LCA supported with a jack stand before separating either of the ball joints.

 

It can be done without removing the brakes if you change one ball joint at a time. Just be very careful not to let the knuckle hang by the brake hose when the upper ball joint is disconnected. The bottom ball joint is easier to change with the rotor out of the way, however.

Another good brand is TRW. Moog has the best reputation that I've heard from other people.

 

My experience is "get stuff out of the way". Disco the brake lines and plug them so the fluid does not drain out. Pull the calipers and buy new ones. Pull the rotors and have them turned or buy new ones. Replace all ball joints if it's been a while. Pull both axles and replace boots. I know.. it's cheaper and easier to replace both axles ($60 per side). Pop in new axle seals in the front diff. Look close at the front diff Pinion seal too. Put it all back together, have the front end aligned and slap on a new set of tires.

Sure, it's a little money, but it's a lot less than if you were having it done! And you've fixed a lot of stuff and put off a bunch of future failures while you were at it.

Bill

 

I just got done doing this. It just takes a little time and the right tools.

I take off the brake caliper mounting bracket - leaving the brakes installed and hang it out of the way with some wire. Disconnect the ABS wire at the plug on the frame rail ( it might save you having to buy a hub!) .

Make sure the hub bearings are good before you start the whole thing. If you are going to end up replacing the hub do it now while everything is apart.

Good luck.
Kevin