What tool do you use to remove ball joints?
Separate the ball joint from the lower control arm with your ball joint separator. You can operate the tool with a socket wrench, using an appropriately sized socket….Removing the ball joint.
| Set up ball joint separator tool. | Remove axle nut. |
|---|---|
| Fit upper adapter onto ball joint. | Fit lower adapter onto ball joint. |
What is a pickle fork tool?
A pickle fork isn’t just a long skinny fork you use to take pickles or olives out of a glass jar, it’s also a long narrow tapered tool you can use to separate ball joints and tie rod joints.
Can I hammer out a ball joint?
It’s usually done by turning the castle nut upside down and reinstalling it. Then you can beat on the ball joint with a hammer (and in some cases accompanied by a big punch) until it releases. This sometimes works, but the end result can be mangled threads on the ball joint. Plus, it usually destroys the castle nut.
How do you separate upper ball joints without tools?
Place your jack directly underneath your axle hub where the ball joint goes down. You can put a piece of wood in between your axle hub and the jack. Then gently raise the hub a bit. Now you should be able to use a hammer to separate the bottom part of the joint from the top.
Can you press in a ball joint with AC clamp?
Prepare the C-clamp. This is the major tool that you will need and the one that will be responsible for pressing the ball joint. The clamp has a hole at the bottom, which is the part that will allow you to press in and out the ball joint in the absence of touching the stud.
What does a pickle fork look like?
A pickle fork isn’t just a long skinny fork you use to take pickles or olives out of a glass jar, it’s also a long narrow tapered tool you can use to separate ball joints and tie rod joints. We’ll save you the time and hassle; don’t just try hammering on a ball joint with a hammer to separate it.
Do you need a pickle fork to remove ball joint?
If you are replacing the joint, then it really won’t matter. To use a pickle fork, simply slide it between the spindle and the control arm as tight as you can and then hit the free end with a hammer. This drives the wedge between the two points and forces the joint out of the taper.
Will pickle fork damage ball joint?
With luck, you won’t damage the rubber boot, something the pickle fork is guaranteed to do. (By the way, everyone you talk to about this will tell you that the secret is to hit the side of the ball joint with a hammer. Works about 1/2 the time, in my experience.)
What is a pickle tool?
A fork with a long handle and usually two or three tines, used for extracting pickles from a tall jar. A long-handled tool with two prongs used to unseat ball-and-socket joints.
What kind of tool do you use to remove ball joints?
Heavy Duty Forged Ball Joint Service Tool / U Joint Removal Tool Kit is excellent for removal and installation of press-fit parts such as ball joints, U joint and brake anchor pins for Most 2WD and 4WD Cars and Light Trucks. Heat Treated C Clamp Puller can excellent press rusted parts effortlessly.
What are the best tips for replacing ball joints?
A variety of specialized tools may be helpful for removing an old ball joint and installing a replacement part. A variety of different tools and sets can be used to service ball joints. A pickle fork separator purchased individually or as part of a set of forks of different sizes can be used to separate ball joints and tie rods.
What is the GearWrench universal ball joint separator?
The Gearwrench Universal Ball Joint Separator is a specialty tool that gives you exactly what you need to tackle ball joints within yo… . It’s affordable, it’s made with durable materials, and it’s very easy to use — the OEM Tools Ball Joint Separator has nearly everything you need.
Can a pickle fork be used to separate ball joints?
A pickle fork separator purchased individually or as part of a set of forks of different sizes can be used to separate ball joints and tie rods. We also stock specialized ball joint spreaders and kits complete with adapters designed for use with particular vehicle makes and models.