I do the same a few times a year. Should clean the rust better but dont. Lazy I guess

 

About how long does it take to replace a ball joint?


I think I'm gonna tackle mine in a few weeks...also, any pointers?


I think mine are still factory...


TIA!

 

should only take a few hours. If yours are factory they are riveted on, you will need a sharp chisal or a grinding wheel to get the of. Grinder makes quick work of it

 

A sharp cold chisel, a steel punch, 5 lb hammer and a wiz wheel..no grinding wheel. Cut an X in the top of rivet with wiz wheel then cold chisle the rivets tabs off then punch them out.

 

Easiest and fastest way I found, is remove the knuckle completely to give you more room. Then grind the top of the rivet off flush, or even into the ball joint a bit. Then ***** punch the center of the rivet, and drill a 1/8" hole about 1/4" deep. Stick a drift, (not a punch) in the hole, couple whacks with a BFH and the rivet pops right out. The 1/8" hole provides a relief so the top of the rivet compresses rather than mushrooms when you whack on the drift. Use 5/16" grade 8 bolts with prevailing torque nuts, not the cheesy 1/4" ones that come with the new joint.