lower ball joint '94

[luckysevens]

I have a bad lower ball joint on a '94 GM. I looked in my Hayes manual for replacement procedure, but it simply says that the lower ball joint is an integral part of the lower control arm, and the entire lower control arm must be replaced. However replacement lower ball joints for my car seem to be sold and after doing some research, it seams like a ball joint press can be used to do the replacement. before I go down that road, does anyone know for sure if the lower ball joint can be replaced, or if it is impossible to do without replacing the lower control arm. Thanks for the help.

[rhandwor]

This is a picture of a tool click on the link. Auto Zone Advance and O'Riley's rent tools. I think they rent these but this is cheaper than an OTC for home use.
http://www.autopart.com/TOOLS/TOOLSMAIN/Tool/T_4004.htm

[luckysevens]

Thanks, I got the old ball joint pressed out and the new one pressed in, but I'm havening trouble getting the ball joint strut back in the steering knuckle, any chance you have some tips on doing that?

[rhandwor]

I used a long crow bar and was able to get enough movement to insert the top of the ball joint in place. Just be careful you don't bend or break anything.

[rhandwor]

I also used the floor jack under the control arm if its to far apart pickup on it.
You can also lower the jack and use the pry bar to raise the upper control arm. I should have been more explicit in the previous post.

[rhandwor]

Note If trying to lower you need a jack stand under the frame. This way you can move the lower control arm either way. Let the jack do the work but also use the pry bar on the upper control arm if needed.

[luckysevens]

Thanks, that and a little cajoling with the steering wheel did it.

[rhandwor]

I'm glad you completed the job thanks for replying.