Learn how to choose the right tool to remove a ball joint

There is a saying that "the right tool is used to get the right job done", and this phrase is most applicable in the field of automotive machinery. Using the wrong tools will not only make the job more difficult, but it will also create unsafe conditions and damage your parts. Sometimes, there are multiple tools available for a task, making it difficult to determine which is the better option. The ball joints on the suspension are, of course, one of them.

PICKLE FOLK

The most well-known tool for separating ball joints is a pickle fork. The pickle fork is essentially a long, two-pronged wedge and is also known as a partial destroyer. Don't use a pickle fork on reusable parts. If you disassemble the joint in order to replace or repair something else, the pickle fork will only cost you more money. The reason is that you can't save the dust boots, and the forks will always tear them. If you're replacing a joint, then it really doesn't matter. To use a pickle fork, simply slide it as tightly as possible between the spindle and the control arm and tap the free end with a hammer. This drives the wedge between the two points and forces the joint out of the taper.

SIMPLE CLAW-TYPE PRESS

This type of ball joint removal tool is a press. It is a one-piece press with cast or forged double jaw jaws with a threaded stud in the middle. More commonly used for tie rod joints, these can be used for ball joints. If the joints are not stuck too badly, they will work. Cheaper versions tend not to fit between the spindle and ball joint, and they may spread out if too much pressure is required. Another potential flaw is damage to the threads of the castle nut on the joint stud. To avoid this, turn the castle nut upside down (the forked side is facing the joint) and apply the press. This allows the head of the stud to be centered. This can also be used in conjunction with the hammer method to apply a little pressure to the butt studs. Tighten the ball joint, press against the ball joint stud to apply pressure, and gently tap it with a hammer a few times. Ball joints should pop out freely.

BALL JOINT SEPARATOR

Sometimes there is not enough space to use a one-piece ball joint press. This is where scissor ball joint separators come in handy. This design still puts pressure on the ball joint stud, but it clamps the spindle into an offset manor to fit more places. It's a handy tool as modern vehicles pack more components into smaller spaces. Simply slide your upper finger over the ball joint stud, then slide your lower two fingers onto the spindle above the boot, then turn the screw to tighten and loosen the joint.

BALL JOINT PRESS

The professional tool is a ball joint press. This is a more sophisticated version of the claw press. The tool uses a flip cover and adapter to ensure clean and safe removal of the ball joint from the control arm. The fitting will also remain reusable. The problem with these types of ball joint tools is that they are expensive; They usually spend a few hundred or more to get all the adapters. Keep in mind that if you need this tool, you need to think about it ahead of time before starting your project.