InsaneAuto86

iTrader: (60)

I am swapping in a UMI K-member. I am having trouble removing the front lower control arm from the steering knuckle. I removed the cotter pins and loosened the castle nut, but cannot seem to get the ball joint separated. The manual I have says to use a pickle fork or BFH. The hammer did not work so how about that pickle fork?

3.4camaro

iTrader: (1)

Use a brick or something to hold the steering knuckle up, and bang on the top of the ball joint. Use the BFH, not just the hammer.

8a8mfh

iTrader: (3)

It depends, the pickle fork is going to ruin the boot.
I never had a problem loosening the nut a few turns and hitting it once to break it loose.
The bottom is real easy, if you let it hang with a jack stand under the body the spring is pushing down on the lower control arm, you HAVE TO leave the nut on, just back it off a few threads and smack it once. The force of the spring and hammer usually pops it loose and the nut holds it. Then be sure to put a jack under the control arm, and remove the nut.

InsaneAuto86

iTrader: (60)

Thanks. I will try this later today and report back.

Compstall

iTrader: (5)

I try to stay away from the pickle fork and only use it as a last resort, unless the part you're banging on with it is going to be replaced.