kouisan

Hello, this is my first post. I am having trouble seperating the lower control arm from the steering knuckle on the driver's side. I am using a puller (with nut still on balljoint) but it is not working. I am afraid to try more force fearing that I might damage the balljoint. I have sucessfully seperated the passenger side already. If someone have any ideas or suggestions that might help it will be appreciated.

EG9turbo

There is a little nub on the lower control arm that you're supposed to hit with a hammer. If you keep hitting it in that spot, it will seperate the balljoint. You can also use a ball joint seperator tool if you have one. Otherwise, hammering the lower control arm will work.

kouisan

thanks, I'll give that a try

acura_typer

Hit it with a 5lb sledge to knock it loose. Hit is hard, about 5 times. Jack up on the spindle a little so the LCA has pressure down from the sway bar.

Mr. Shifty

I put the lug wrench (that came from the dealer) between the LCA and the knucle, and hit it with a big brick. The brick broke in two, the lug wrench bent, and, Voila, the joint was separated. (No kidding, true story)
Try it, it works!

shawnhayes

A torch will work, but it will roast the boot on the balljoint. I have been there. I feel your pain. I bent my balljoint trying to separate it. Try lots and lots of PB blaster and let it soak. I mean let it soak! Days. Try again with the puller - try the sledge. Good luck. The worst that could happen is that you damage the balljoint and have to get a new one (you gotta get new ones every once in a while anyway).

Shawn