Do any of you guys have any tricks for separating the lower ball joints from the control arm? I currently use a tie rod separator and it works quick, but tends to rip the boot. What do you guys do in order to not rip the ball joint boot?

 

what sort of tie rod separator are you using? what i use, which is a similar device to the honda tool, does not rip anything.

 

He is probably using the fork style separater. i always thought you couldnt remove the lower ball joint bc it is pressed in.

 

I use the Harbor F separator. Like $20. http://www.harborfreight.com/3-4-qua...tor-99849.html

works like a champ. I redid all my ball joints when I installed the ES bushing kit.

 

Are you trying to replace the ball joint or are you just trying to free the ball joint from the knuckle?

 

I was using the fork style removal tool.

 

Just trying to free the ball joint from the control arm.

 

That's actually perfect. I'm going to go ahead and use that from now on. Thanks for the help, I appreciate it.

 

the forks rip the boots, the link posted is what i use, works like a charm.

 

All right sounds great. Thanks for all your help. Much appreciated.

 

i use a hammer and hit the lca.

 

^ Same, a few whacks with a hammer does the trick without even touching the boot.

 

FREE and easy. well technically not free but you should have this tool or something similar if you're removing the ball joint.

 

smack the lca a few times with a good heavy hammer few good times unless you remove the joint often, after awhile the hammer method will start to leave impressions on the lca.