So I need new ball joints and really want to deal with this right now but I can't afford to have the shop do this one. I've never done ball joints, but I've done just about everything else so I know I can do it. But does anyone have any tips or know of any how to diagrams I can use to help me? Also what's a good replacment ball joint for these trucks? I know they go out alot. I don't have the funds at all, so keep that in mind, but I don't want to be doing this again next year. Any input will be much appreciated. Thanks...

 

Do a search for ball joints and you will find way to much good info to even try to add it all in here. It's not a complicated job, just a frustrating knuckle buster of one.

 

Hey what axle do I have up front?

 

My truck has a Dana 60 under it up front.

 

It's not complicated,Like Bubba says just lotsa mangled knuckles if you ain't careful

 

You may want to think about replacing ball joints, tie rod ends, track bar ,at the same time if they are needed. MOOG or dynatec seem to be the best ones. This is almost the most hardest thing to do on the truck.Be careful with the axle seals if it is a 4 wheel drive.Good luck and take your time

 

Almost the hardest thing to do on the truck? That sucks! It's got to be easier than the injection pump and all that bs. I had to fix that myself 3 days after purchasing the damn thing. Couldn't afford to pay labor on top of parts. That was not fun. Hope this "investment" of a truck pays off. Damn! Thanks fellas...

 

I had to have a torch on hand to heat up the ball joints Sorry.The fun stopped with taking the wheel off . You may want to get help

 

If you have any specific questions be sure to ask away. Be sure to use the socket trick to break them lose and use anti-sieze on the new stuff so you won't have to fight so hard the next time.

And definitely as was said before check everything out and replace all you can while your in there. Sucks to do this and then the next month have to pull it all apart again to change somethin else. Check your wheel bearings, rotors, U-joints to be sure they aren't gonna go sometime soon. I did em all at the same time when i pulled mine last time.

 

You can take these to the local machine shop or service center and for a few bucks they will push em out for ya. I used an air chisel, BFH and a hand press with a lot a cussin managed to get it done like that. The hand presses can be rented from Auto Zone or the like for nothin but a deposit.