How to Use a Ball Joint or U-Joint Press | O'Reilly Auto Parts

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The Ball Joint or U-Joint Press is a tool that’s useful when you need to remove and replace pressed-in ball joints on most vehicles, and can also be used to press u-joints to remove and install their bearing caps. The ball joint and u-joint press is one of over eighty tools we have available in our Loaner Tool Program. The Loaner Tool program can help you save money on your repairs; just pay a deposit equal to the cost of the tool, and we’ll return your full deposit when you return the tool to the store.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

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The Ball Joint/U-Joint Press procedure below applies to most vehicles, but be sure to know the specifics for your vehicle before getting started. If you’re not comfortable safely completing this procedure on your own, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.

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Check the ball joint for a spot-weld to the control arm.

Step 1: Inspect the Ball Joint

Once you’ve removed the necessary components to access the ball joint, check it to see if it has a small spot-weld to the control arm. If it does, the weld must be ground off.

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Determine the correct receiving tube for your ball joint and control arm or knuckle.

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Receiving Tube

Select a receiving tube with a diameter larger than the diameter of the ball joint housing, but small enough to fit snugly over the control arm or knuckle.

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Once the pressure screw is lubricated, assemble the press.

Step 3: Assemble the Press

Fit the removing adapter to the receiving tube. Make sure the pressure screw is well-lubricated, and assemble the press.

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Use a 7/8” or 22mm socket to rotate the pressure screw.

Step 4: Separate the Ball Joint

Align the press, and use a 7/8” or 22mm socket and ratchet to turn the pressure screw in until the ball joint comes out of the control arm.

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Clean and lubricate the opening for the new ball joint.

Step 5: Clean and Lubricate the Opening

Before installing the new ball joint, clean and lubricate the opening so the new ball joint will seat properly in the control arm or knuckle.

Do It Right: If your new ball joint has a grease fitting, make sure it is turned in a direction that will make it accessible once the ball joint is installed.

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Press the new ball joint into place with your 7/8” or 22mm socket and ratchet.

Step 6: Press In the New Ball Joint

Hand-start the new ball joint in the control arm using the receiving tube and installer. Position the ball joint press assembly so that the screw presses the ball joint into the control arm in the proper alignment. Use your 7/8” or 22mm socket and ratchet to press it into place.

Do It Right: Make sure you’re pressing the ball joint into the control arm or knuckle at a perfectly straight angle, and before disassembling the ball joint press, be sure you’ve driven it in completely.

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The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.