So I'm working on rebuilding the front-end... got everything apart and pressed the new ball joints into the knuckle without too much trouble. But, getting the knuckle back onto the axle is not going so well. The upper ball joint (K80026) seems to have a ever-so-slightly larger diameter, preventing it from fully seating. I haven't touched the passenger side yet so the pics show the difference... Any suggestions?

Also, as the torque settings are different for each, how do I know if the axle is the 216 FBI or 248 FBI?

Thanks,
Russ

 

[QUOTE=CTD99;3315438]So I'm working on rebuilding the front-end... got everything apart and pressed the new ball joints into the knuckle without too much trouble. But, getting the knuckle back onto the axle is not going so well. The upper ball joint (K80026) seems to have a ever-so-slightly larger diameter, preventing it from fully seating. I haven't touched the passenger side yet so the pics show the difference... Any suggestions?

Also, as the torque settings are different for each, how do I know if the axle is the 216 FBI or 248 FBI?

Thanks,
Russ[/QUOTE
An enlarged ball joint receptacle in the control arm can cause a loose ball joint fit. Moog Problem Solver design includes an oversized housing for a more secure fit.

 

Well, I'm an idiot. I guess the truck is in better shape than I expected after 180K... I'll try a different ball joint.

 

BTW, you have a 248 ( Dana 60 ) axle, not a 216 ( Dana 44 )

The K80026 is the correct joint for your application.............

 

I'm still stuck with this !@#$%^&*! thing... Mevotech MK80026 gives me the exact same problem. Any suggestions other than burning the whole thing to the ground? What could I possibly be doing wrong that would be preventing this from going back together correctly?

 

as per the pic, it looks like a washer or spacer is different on the old one