Ball Joint Replacement

I have a 1998 Ranger with 109,000 miles that is starting to squeak in the front end. The rubber boots on the ball joints are deteriorated and the ball joints do not have grease fittings. How difficult is the removal and replacement of the ball joints? What is the procedure?

lower ball joints in a ranger are fairly easy if you are able and have the know how of removing the knuckle and then having access to a ball joint press.

i bought a haynes manual just for this job and wouldn't ya know... it doesn't show instructions for 1998 and up.

i've got a 2000 4x4. from what i understand the parts for torsionbar style are far more expensive. any hints and tips to help a guy save a few pennies?

also what special tools would be needed? ... i see a press is most definitely needed...

The job on a 98 isn't too bad - mostly time consuming. I just did all 4 on y 98 about a month or so ago. You need a good set of hand tools - sockets extensions, breaker bars and a pickle fork. You'll also need a balljoint press, like the one from Autozone loaner program. I'm assuming this is on a 2wd. If it is 2wd don't let anyone tell you that the upper control arms need to be replaced because the joint CAN be pressed out. Also plan on doing both joints on the side you're working on. Always replace them in pairs on the same side. Figure on $200 for all 4 joints. Let me know if you have any questions. You might want to PM me that you posted seeing as I don't check the Ford boards too often.

I have a 99 2WD Ranger whereby I suspect I may ball joint problems. I started to hea slight creaking and snapping sound particularly during slow speed. I can feel it in my steering wheel. This does not happen all the time but lately in increasing frequency. No problem at high and moderate speeds. The rubber boot around the ball joints is also cracked and the joints are not equipped with zirk fittings.

ya i wish it were $200 for all 4. i've got a 4wd setup so it looks like it's gonna be an expensive project