How heavy of a press do I need to get the ball joints out of my 97? I know they lend you those ones from most parts stores, but do you need something a little heavier to get the job done? Its time to do at least 1 joint in the 97, so I was going to do the whole bunch and wondering if I need a hydraulic press to get them out/in.

Thanks!

 

I had no problems using the loaner from the parts store. One gave me a little trouble, a little heat and a few taps of a big hammer popped it right out though. I think I had more problem getting the knuckle assembly off the axle, those tapered studs can really find a home in there. I tried a few different forks (made for tierods) and ended up a big hammer was the way to go again.

 

I've done ball joints on several of those trucks and have never used, or needed, a hydraulic press. Always used an OTC setup with a C-clamp style press and never much of a problem. The odd time the press wasn't strong enough to break one loose, you could just tighten it up as much as you could then give it a whack with a hammer and that would be enough. If it was an eastern vehicle it would be a different matter.

 

Fair enough. I did ball joints on my 89 and 93 2WD trucks years ago but the pressed A arms are a far cry from the cast ends of the D60 axle.

Ok. Thanks guys. I had the brakes done about 2 years ago so they had to pull the knuckles to replace those components as well as do the u-joints on the drive shafts. So I am hoping that the knuckles should dismantle with a little less destruction.

Any ball joints recommended? I was thinking MOOG..

 

I use the OTC 8031 kit(I believe that is the number) and it worked well.

 

I've always had great luck with Moog on 2nd gen trucks. Lots of problems on 3rd gen trucks, but I wouldn't hesitate to put them on my own 96. Have heard good things on here about XRF, and wouldn't mind trying them either, just so I could form an opinion.
Good luck with the project.

 

Any idea what model works on a 2001 3500 4x4?

 

The model I listed above will work great, its is not cheap, but it was worth it when I was able to do orginal balljoints in about 3 hours for both sides. It works like a charm.

 

Hmmm. I will have to look that up.

 

You weren't sure of the number in your post. Is that the correct number?

 

I looked it up and it was a Dodge ball joint press kit. I don't know if I would do it enough to justify the cost.

 

I borrowed the press from AutoZone and it was almost not big enough but worked ok. I had to fabricate a larger adapter out of a section of steel pipe though. I installed Spicer joints which are doing the job great.

 

Good to know.. I would hate to get it home to find it doesn't fit. By that point all the other heavy work is done.

 

Thanks all! Sure am glad you guys are out there to help!

 

what about kit from harbor freight
http://www.harborfreight.com/four-wh...-kit-4065.html