is it possible to change lower ball joint without removing the upper if so could some one explain please thank you

 

Year, make, model, 2WD or 4WD? Are the ball joints, that need to be replaced, bolted in or riveted in?

 

98ls 4wd and they are bolted upper is good bottom needs replaced

 

There are a ton of DIY threads here on the forum that will guide you through it. The half shaft must be seperated from the hub assembly in order to get the old joint out and the new one in. Easiest way to do that is remove the hub assembly. Then seperate the lower ball joint and outer tie rod end from the knuckle and move the knuckle and half shaft out of the way. I usually go one more step and seperate the upper ball joint and take the entire knuckle off, it gives you way more room.

 

thanks for the info will just go out and start pulling things off

 

Not a difficult job, but it is time consuming and messy. Make sure you use a torque wrench when reassembling. If you needs torque specs, just ask.

 

all that have to be done on first gens too? yikes LOL

 

Been a while, but seems like it's very similar.

 

im in the process of replacing the pass. side axle bearing and was also
looking for a simpler way of replacing the lower ball joint.... nope, i found the short cut is removing the knuckle

 

well been trying to get axle nuts off no luck broke 2 half inch breaker bars tried impact no luck guess it i will take to shop and have them loosen nuts