Ball Joint Removal from Spindle

Need some help guys. Having trouble removing the upper ball joint from the spindle. Anyone that's done it before on a 1st gen have suggestions. Got it off the upper arm but can't figure it out how to get it off the spindle.

Have removed the boot and removed the snap ring retainer.

 

Yeah, used a puller to get bj out of the UCA, thats not the problem. Its getting the bj out of the spindle.

 

He need to get the BJ out of the Spindle now the UCA.

Like lisa said it's a press fit, you'll have to heat the spindle and beat the shit out of the BJ to get it out by hand. You'll also have to pull the snap rings out before it will move at all it's a huge pain in the ass without a press.

 

They do seem to be on there pretty good. I have pounded on them pretty good. it is a challenge to get a really big swing of the hammer because the fender is in the way.

Have also tried a puller but the combination of the bj moving/deflecting and almost no lip to grab onto makes the puller ineffective. Have also tried heat from one of those hand held propane torches but it didn't help.

One suggestion from another member was to remove the spindle altogether and press the bj out while holding the spindle in a vice.

 

do you have a large socket that will fit over the BJ and you can pound on that. I'm assuming that you're putting in your camburgs.

I would pull the spindle all the way off too so you can get a better swing.

 

Yes, that was the plan. And we did "modify" a large socket that slid over the bj. Unfortunately, pounding on it did not budge it.

 

do you know anyone with a press?

 

I did mine with a 4-jaw puller and a lot of patience. You may want to buy a couple other types of pullers. They are handy.

 

@Digiratus What method ended up working for you? I'm trying to remove the UBJ from the spindle. Going to look for a 27-30 deep socket to press it out. Or cut the UBJ bolt, place a socket over it to press. Any help?

 

Did mine with a big ass C clamp and the honda ball joint adapter set. Yeah, I didn't have the proper set but I got it in/out. Make sure you remove the c clip holding it to the knuckle.

 

I use an OTC C clamp press and Toyota adapters....one for pressing out and one for pressing in the new balljoint. Makes the job easy and I'm not stacking sockets and bearing adapters to rig up my C clamp.
https://www.otctools.com/sites/default/files/538622.pdf

 

similar kit..

 

We ended up removing the spindles and taking them to a friend with a press.

 

Thanks guys. I couldn't find the right size socket or adapter for rent that would clear the UBJ bolt and sit on the housing. I ended up cutting the bolt with an angle grinder. Then set a 32mm socket on the housing, a flat piece of steel on top to cover the socket hole, and pressed it out. What a journey.

 

I believe I had to cut it out too but I also need a cup underneath to help press out and catch the balljoint.

 

I used this guy's technique. Works great!

http://www.bajataco.com/tech/control_arms_01.html

For removing the upper BJ from the spindle, save yourself hours of frustration and swearing by just renting the proper BJ press tool from your local auto parts store... Also helps to throw the BJs in the freezer for at least a couple hours before pressing them in.

 

Hey guys . now where to get good bj’s upper an lower? Aftermarket ? I need to replaced mine soon went i do my suspension upgrade

 

The average 1st gen owner on this site is gonna say just get OEM Balljoints. Some disagree but I feel OEM is worth the money if you can afford it.