Trying to replace my front rotors, but Im stuck at getting the lower ball joint freed.

Any tips on how to break the lower ball joint loose? I tried a two-clamp puller, but it doesnt really fit right, so it falls off. Tried a big hammer, but since I dont have a lift, its not high enough to get a good swing.

Thanks, Spy

 

Special Honda ball joint puller, ball joint puller fork you can buy at any auto parts store + big mallet, or an impact hammer with a forked end will all do the trick. The last one is funnest h:

 

jack up the LCA, place something hard between the balljoint and LCA (that fills the gap), lower jack...it should pop off.

 

:werd: That or get a $20 or so ball joint release tool that has the screw lever type action...I have one and it works every time, very little effort.

 

lol, i have yet to see one of those @ a auto parts store...ill ask next time.
do you know if they work for tierods?

 

I know, I had to search a while before finding mine at Napa.

Haven't ever tried them on tierod ends yet...but I think Napa actually carries one specifically for them.

 

If you believe these guys:

http://www.overboost.com/story.asp?id=426

The tool they used to separate the ball joint is sold at Autozone for $10

It is called "Tie Rod End & Pitman Arm puller for Compact Cars"

I just bought one today but haven't had to use it yet (I will in a few days). It does seem a lot sturdier than those pullers with the hinged arms (which I've tried before with no success). Good Luck!

 

Looks like it could work...it just depends on the design of the jaws...if it's stable, it should work. My hinge type has worked great for me so far, I don't use it everyday, but I've probably popped about 8 ball joints on 4 different cars...3 hondas and even one BMW 325i and so far it hasn't let me down yet.

 

Ok, thanks for the replies, guys. I was pushed back on this job, but now Ive added UBJs and UCAs to the job. I've also posted to other threads regarding this. Ive been searching for a specific DIY on this year/model (92/Accord sedan) and have found some text on cars that are close.

One question is: Do I have to get the lowers pressed in to the arm?

Thanks, Spy

 

In the words of Borat "Whoa whoa woowa!" I'll have a DIY up for the other side, but to make it short for now, I had to pull the wheel bearing out of the steering knuckle to get the lower ball joint out. Got lucky on the impact wrench, $28.

Spy