'93 Si Hatchback. First time removing the driveshafts from the transmission on this car (installing LSD), and I thought I'd use the "pop the ball joint with a 1/2" ratchet" trick instead of the proper tool (which I typically use).

Only, I didn't need to use anything at all. With the damper forks still on, it took two pumps of my trolley jack and out popped the joint. It appears that the pressure from the damper pushing down was enough force to pop the sucker out. I've never seen anyone ever say "just jack up the hub and your ball joint should pop out" so it occurred to me that this is weird, and I'm wondering if I should be concerned about a failing or problematic part, etc. etc. Or, maybe I just got lucky?

I'm no mechanic (not even close) so input from experienced users would be appreciated. Thx.

 

I've never seen one just fall out, even when taking apart cars at the yard, so more then likely the ball joint is really worn, if it was loose it's mating surface in the suspension may also be worn out

 

The fact it just popped out is a bit strange but sometimes you get lucky, honestly if the boots aren't ripped, i'd just run it. the 3 and 6 o'clock pull never hunt.

 

you need to look really close at the socket it fits in, if it was loose and moving around it can wear it out, then the entire part is junk in addition to the ball joint

 

Occasionally you get lucky, if there's no play in the joint and it's not seized the it's fine.

 

I sometimes grease them a little to help ensure that when I do have to replace them they would be easy to pop off, I still use the BFH to bang on the lower control arm but it pops off in 1 or 2 swings.

 

All right, thanks guys. Passenger side came out pretty easily too. I'll test for play after the wheel's back on, but an initial check on the passenger side didn't show any problem. LCA bushing is shot, so I'll take care of that too while I'm down there. Got a low-mileage JDM donor car at hand, so easy peasy to mix 'n' match.

 

How long have you had the car? Do you think they are stock or could someone have replaced them just before you got it or something?

Strange OEM would pop out like that, but I've had ones I replaced do it after a yr or so..

 

Had the car 3.5 yrs. Ball joints have the snap ring which suggests to me they've been replaced. (OEM do not, apparently.) I wonder if I can figure out the brand, because I'm picky about ball joints.