Ball Joint Removal

Removal

Special Tools Required
- Ball joint striker tool 071AD-S3VA000
- Ball joint thread protector 071AF-S3VA000
- Ball joint remover, 28 mm 07MAC-SL00200

NOTE: The front lower arm ball joint is not replaceable separately. If the ball joint is worn or damaged, replace the lower arm and ball joint as an assembly.





1. Screw the ball joint thread protector all the way onto the ball joint stud.





2. Apply molybdenum grease (A) to the special tool at the areas shown. This makes installing the tool easier and prevents damage to the pressure bolt (B) threads.





3. Install the special tool as shown. Insert the jaws carefully, making sure you do not damage the ball joint boot. Adjust the jaw spacing by turning the pressure bolt.





4. Once the special tool is in place, turn the adjusting bolt (A) as necessary to make the jaws parallel. Then hand-tighten the pressure bolt (B), and recheck the jaws to make sure they are still parallel.
5. After making the adjustment to the adjusting bolt, make sure the head of the adjusting bolt (A) is in this position to the allow the jaw (C) to pivot.





6. Tighten the pressure bolt (A) to 133 Nm (13.5 kgf-m, 90 ft. lbs.). If the ball joint does not pop loose, strike the side of the knuckle with a hammer and the special tool to dislodge the ball joint.
7. Remove the tool. Then remove the thread protector from the end of the ball joint, and pull the ball joint out of the steering/suspension arm. Inspect the ball joint boot, and replace it if damaged.