I am getting ready to install the Hotchkis suspension kit. Do I need a ball joint fork to do the front? I know the ball joint needs to be taken loose can it be done safely without the fork? Just doing the spings and 01 Bilstiens for now. Will do the sway bars soon. Trying to decide between the Hotchkis and Quickor. Quickor is the one working on the bushing kit.

 

Silverbolt:
Had the same question when I replaced my front springs awhile back. The advice I got that worked very well: after the truck is secured on jack stands take up some travel on the front suspension by jacking up the lower A arm, loosen the upper ball joint retaining nut, deliver a couple of sharp blows to the spindle along side the ball joint stud. This will break the upper ball joint loose from the spindle, then you can remove the nut and slowly lower the jack under the A arm. This should be your last step (remove sway bar link, shock, free up ABS sensor wire and brake line first) in dissassembly.
Good Luck!

 

Silver-Bolt,
I agree with BOSTONL, That is how I did it when I lowered my L. Just give it a couple of good shots and it will pop right out.

Bill

 

Thanks for the info. Want to be ready when the parts get here.