[DeTomaso] Rear upper ball joints

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 5/13/10 19 43 36, ncpantera at bellsouth.net writes:


> Any tricks to removing the ball joints without damage to the upper arms?
> 

Go to any auto parts store and rent their front end service kit.   Among 
the items in the kit is a ball joint removal tool.   Here's a photo of the kit 
that every store in the country rents out:

http://cens.com/cens/supplier/product/pic/05502018/20186_big.jpg

The tool in the center bottom is the one you use.   The bolt on the bottom 
left is part of this tool.   Here's how it works.

The part of the tool that is at the bottom right corner, goes in between 
the top of the hub carrier, and the ball joint.   Although it's difficult to 
see, there is a machined relief and it's quite thin.   I usually have to 
sharpen it somewhat to make sure that it enters cleanly and doesn't rip the ball 
joint boot.

The part of the tool that is at the top right corner, goes underneath the 
bottom of the ball joint, where the nut threads on.   (It's best to leave the 
nut threaded on, flush with the bottom of the threads, to protect them).   
The bolt threads through the part of the tool on the bottom left in the 
photo, and the end pushes on the part at the top left.   When the part on the 
top left is pushed, there is a see-saw effect and it pushes on the opposite 
side.

What this does is gently but firmly force the ball joint up and out of the 
hub carrier.   In practice, you will turn and turn and turn and the forces 
and strain will become ever greater, then POP! and it will pop free.   That's 
the other reason for keeping the nut on the end of the ball joint--it 
prevents the whole assembly from blowing apart and collapsing in your face. :>)

My local Kragen's charges a $90 fee to rent the kit and returns all $90 
when I bring it back, making it free!

Mike