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How Can I Remove a Stuck Ball Joint from the Knuckle?
I’m trying to change my ball joints at home but I can’t remove one of them from the knuckle. How can I loosen up the ball joint so I can get it out of the knuckle?
Katherine Duffy · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I’m sorry that you’re having a tough time replacing your ball joints! There are three different methods you can use to free stuck ball joints from the knuckle.
Depending on whether you’d like to keep the ball joints you’re removing, you’ll need a hammer, a tuning fork, or a ball joint separator.
- Using a hammer: Don’t use a hammer if you want to use your ball joints again. Hit your hammer on the steering knuckle or threaded studs at the ball joint a few times. The hammer’s impact should be enough to free your ball joint from the knuckle.
- Use a tuning fork: Wrap the tuning fork’s prongs around the shaft and hammer the fork end. This pinches the fork between the ball joint and the steering knuckle, perhaps releasing the ball joint. Using a tuning fork might harm the rubber boot on the ball joint, causing premature wear.
- Use a ball joint separator: A ball joint separator is the preferred method if you want to reinstall your ball joints. Tighten the bolt facing you to carefully detach the ball joint from the steering knuckle. The separator removes the ball joint without damaging the knuckle.
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- Gregory R.
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