95 three button. Just did upper and lowers on both sides about a month ago. 4x4 just went (again) now I'm down to the thrust washers in the front diff. I see there as many so called easy ways of getting the CV axel out as Carter has pills. Just taking the whole dammn thing apart, would love to save the new upper ball. I have been told you can make it release by smacking both sides with two hammers at the same time, kind of like releasing the steering. Any feelings on this. Thank's Jeff.

 

I've never tried using two hammers at once, but it might work more efficiently than using only one bfh. I'll soon find out as i will be replacing all four ball joints on my Blazer. The previous owner failed to notice that they needed replacing.

 

i have never used a tool to release the ball joints or tie rods. i always take out the cotter pin, loosen the nut, than give the knuckle good couple hits with a hammer where the bj passes thru. works everytime

 

x2. And if one hammer doesn't do it, 2 almost always does...

 

Thank you. Love large pair of hammers.

 

2 hammers never failed me as long as they hit at the same time.

 

And the intended target, vs knuckles or finger tips.

 

Ohfucrineoutloud!

You DONT "hit with two hammers at same time"!!!!!! You hold one against one side of the knuckle, and smack the other side with your dominant arm/hand.
It's the ONLY way I use to remove tie rod/ ball joints for the last thirty years.
Think 'anvil'
I've found the best combo is the head of a ten pound sledge and a framing hammer.

And I've done a few. If you dont beleive it works, ask any blacksmith. If you think it might damage the knuckle.. again .. ask the blacksmith, it wont.
The steel alloy used to make steering knuckles used to be called 'Malleable Iron' Which means you can beat the **** out of it before it cracks.

 

Over, done. Small sledge and framer worked like a charm. Thank you one and all. Pickel fork has been retired.

 

First I've ever heard the 2 hammer trick. I've always used one.