What do you do when it’s time to replace a ball joint, do you know which tool to use? As the saying goes, "The right tool for the right job" is crucial, especially in vehicle maintenance. With several tools available for this task, choosing the right one can be tricky. In this blog, we’ll break down the five most popular types of ball joint tools to help you handle any ball joint-related job with confidence.
5 Most Popular Types of Ball Joint Tools
Hammer
Using a hammer to knock off a ball joint may seem strange, but it isn't. This should be your go-to approach when you attempt it on any modern car with steel or cast iron spindles. Test the spindle with a magnet; if it does not stick, you have an aluminum spindle, and then go to the next procedure.
The challenge here is to utilize the hammer properly. You do not need to strike the joint's stud; instead, touch the side of the spindle (where the stud slips through) when the suspension is slack. The emphasis is on "tap" because you're not aiming to drive railroad spikes but rather shock them loose.
In most situations, the stud will easily pop out of the spindle, saving you some hassle. It depends on how old the stud is and the cleanliness of the suspension system. The longer the joint has been used, the higher the chances of the stud seizing in the taper.
Pickle Fork
The most well-known tool for removing ball joints is the pickle fork. The pickle fork is a long two-sided wedge. Note: do not use a pickle fork on a reusable item. If you're removing the joint to replace or service anything else, the pickle fork will just increase the expense. There is no point in trying to save the dust boots because a fork will always tear them. Thus, if you're replacing the joint, it won't matter.
To use a pickle fork correctly, slide it as tightly as possible between the spindle and the control arm before hitting the free end with a hammer. This moves the wedge between the two locations, forcing the joint out of the taper.
Simple Claw Type Press
The name says it all! This one-piece press features a cast or forged two-prong claw with a threaded stud in the middle. These are most typically used for tie-rod joints, although they may also be used for ball joints. They function as long as the joint is not too severely seized. Cheaper versions often do not fit between the spindle and the ball joint head. Causing it to split apart if too much pressure is applied. Another potential hazard is damaging the threads for the castle nut on the joint stud.
To prevent this from happening, add the castle nut upside down, then press it. This allows the head to remain in the centre. This can be used along with the hammer approach to apply some pressure to the joint stud as well. Tighten the ball joint by pressing down on the ball joint stud and tapping lightly with the hammer. The ball joint should pop free.
Ball Joint Separator
A ball joint separator cannot always be used because of limited space. A scissor-style ball joint separator might be useful in this situation. This design maintains pressure on the ball joint stud, but it holds the spindle in an offset manner to fit in more places. As newer automobiles cram more components into tighter areas, this is a useful tool to have. Simply place the top finger over the ball joint stud and the bottom two fingers on the spindle above the dust boot, then tighten the screw and snap the joint loose.
Ball Joint Press
The ball joint press is a professional tool. This is a more complex variation of the claw press. This tool employs a clamshell and adapters to facilitate the proper removal of the ball joint from the control arm. The joint will also be reusable. The difficulty with these sorts of ball joint tools is that they are pricey, costing a couple of hundred dollars or more for all of the adapters. Just bear in mind that if you require this tool for your project, you must plan ahead of time.
Orion Motor Tech's Highly Efficient Ball Joint Tools
Their 21-piece ball joint tool kit is highly recommended because it is made from high-quality steel, which makes it extremely strong and able to withstand tough jobs. They are used for efficient removal and replacement tasks. Their adapters and sleeves come in various sizes and are made to fit different ball joints.
This tool kit is compatible with various car models ranging from Chevy, Ford, Dodge 2, and so on. These ball joints are so durable because they are forged by carbon steel with anti-rust black-oxide coated adapters for optimum strength and lifespan while resisting rust and corrosion.
Final Thoughts
The technicalities of car suspension can be complex, but at the end of this blog, you must have a good understanding of how you can improve and use various tools for one task. If you do not have high-end tools and equipment, you can always use the more common types of ball joint tools like hammers, etc.
