Removing lower ball joint?

[Jimmyvonviggle]

What is the best way to remove a lower ball joint? Big hammer or spreader? I’m afraid if I use a big hammer something will break. Or is there some other trick?

[Jason]

Do you mean removing the ball joint from the lower control arm, or separating the ball joint from the hub carrier?

[Jimmyvonviggle]

I would like to install one of these.

[Ethan Rode]

You'll want to remove the spiral ring and any remains of the grease boot. Take off the snap ring, and you're ready to remove. A big hammer will do it, but it's not ideal. A shop press, large vise, or ball joint press would be a better choice. You may be able to rent a ball joint press from a local parts store.

With the shop press, or vise, the lower control arm will need to come off. A 3-4" piece of 2" metal pipe will be needed to act as a spacer. Ball joint press should come with spacers and cups to facilitate removal and re-installation

I'd also highly recommend installing reinforcing collars. DeloreanGo sells them.