JustAFooL

iTrader: (45)

Trying to separate the 'steering knuckle' from ball joint stud. First question is if the steering knuckle is the part that the stud on the ball joint slides through? That's what I'm assuming right now. Second question is what is the best way to separate them? I've already removed the UCA bolt and pin, the bolt and pin off the tie rod end and the bolt and pin off the actual ball joint. Am I going about this rig or have I already done something wrong?

chopperb

iTrader: (1)

You need a ball joint separator.

Like this

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/otc-6535/overview/

JustAFooL

iTrader: (45)

Sadly, I don't have be of them and I'd say most people don't other than mechanics. It looks like all that does is pry the bottom of the spindle from the ball joint.. Can that not be done with a big pry bar?

ramair 1

iTrader: (2)

your local parts store will loan you one, you pay for it then return it and they give you all your money back, the right tool makes the job soooo much easier.i will admit i have tried using anything i have on hand and struggled but did get the job done.Goodluck

JustAFooL

iTrader: (45)

Thanks guys, I just called my local autozone and they have one for rent. I'm assuming you just drive it the forks through the ball joint and snap the back down to separate it? What about the stud that is still sticking through on the tie rod? When I break the LCA loose, will it bend the tie rod?

chopperb

iTrader: (1)

Drive it between the ball joint the knuckle. Hit it good with a hammer. It will break loose. The tierod wont bend because there is play in the rack.

JustAFooL

iTrader: (45)

Alright man, I'm picking it up tomorrow after work

JustAFooL

iTrader: (45)

Do you have to come in on an angle starting from the rear of the car??

Spartan7

iTrader: (7)

Using a pickle fork is the wrong way to do it, you can gouge your A-arm and rip the ball joint boot or damage the ball joint itself (if you're keeping it). These work better, or you can use a pitman arm puller: