Hi everyone,

I was just wondering if anybody has any experience with replacing the lower ball joint. I have to change mine tonight and I do have the tool required in the manual so is it pretty easy to do?

 

I have no experience with the tool in the manual, the ratchet handle method has been good to me though. A standard puller and a hammer were ineffective.

 

I have the Honda tool, it kicks ***

I also bought a bunch of other Honda tools you're supposed to use...it's easier to take the entire assembly to a shop and have them press it.

 

Just call me Shade Tree mechanic
1. Put new ball joint in freezer
2. Take a MAP gas torch and heat the surrounding steel on the steering knuckle where the Ball joint is located.
(if it has a retaining clip remove that)
3. put the castle nut back on the ball joint and gently tap with hammer, if it is hot enough it should come out easily. Just make sure to not heat too close to the wheel bearing
4. take the cold ball joint out of the freezer and then tap it into the heated steering knucle.
BAM new ball joint , when it cools down it will be tight as hell and in there just like new

 

 

That sounds very easy
I was going to buy a press but that is an easy way without a press, will it work with bushing replacement

 

you dont need a press. it will come out with 3-4 good whacks of a hammer

 

oh yeah, dont forget to take out the c-clip from the lower ball joint

 

3-4 good wacks !! ? I had to use a sledge and a fork. gt30 that sounds like a good idea tho :D

 

That pops the ball joint out of the spindle, but to remove it from the lower arm you will need the tool from Honda, do it the old fashion way and press it, or try what gt30typer did (to sounds very logical and should work with no problem.

 

nope , dont hit it on the ball joint itself, hit it on the side of the lower control arm where those wierd tabs are protruding , a few good raps and bam pop the ball joint is out. A little trick I picked up from my buddy at acura