Its come time to replace the ball joints in my truck. Is this a very hard task. I have all the parts already. But is it worth having a shop do it all?

 

its easy.all you need is a floor jack,a hammer and a cup shaped object that just fits over the ball joint boot but will catch the metal ring around the side. you use the jack to lift up on the ball joint (with the cup shaped object) and drive the a-arm onto it with a hammer.you can just knock the old one out with a hammer(after you pull the steering knuckle and c-clip on the ball joint of course).i used an old wagon hub that fit just right on the ball joint to drive it in.and there is a raised flat spot on my a-arm so i hit it with the hammer to drive in the new ones.i'd say all the castings are the same but who knows. if you're changing the uppers,they're no problem but you'll have to get it re-alligned after.

 

Pretty simple task. If you can change brakes you can handle the ball joints.... I also bought a Cam Bolt Kit for my uppers from Specialty Products Part # 87385..$47 and gives you easy adjustment of the upper arms fro alignment. I just did all 4 of mine with MOOG greasable relacements. If you take some measurements off the stock bolts (I used my calipers) and set the new ons back there ...as mine turned out..drives straight as an arrow. Im skipping the alignment. Here is a real Helpfull link..... http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/36...f-150-4x4.html I suggest using a loaner Ball joint press from a auto parts house. Makes it a breeze. I actually just bought a set for my personal use.....I know a few Ford Truck guys that want ball joints done...I smell $$$$

 

Do a search on my posts. I decribed in detail how to do it.

 

thanks for the info guys.ill be doing it this weekend. i bought the moog regreasable ball joints. just have to go out in the cold to do it.