Well, I got the lowers changed over the weekend. Here's the scoop, in no special order:

1) Honda's bullsh*t about needing a new knuckle is just that. The ball joint can be replaced, no problem. This saved me over $700 in parts!

2) NAPA is one source for ball joints. They will also press the old ones out, and the new ones in, for $15.00. Cheaper than a ball joint press plus adapters for a Honda. You obviously have to R/R the knuckles.

3) A ball joint popper, rather than a pickle fork, is the way to go, at least for Honda ball joints. It won't rip the boot, and it'll pop the joints (3 per side) lickedy-split.

4) Lots of penetrating oil and a good deal of patience is needed for this job.

5) Don't bother spending time getting the ABS wheel speed sensor off the hub. Undo the cable under the hood and fish the cable out/in. It's a lot faster.

Darren