I need to replace the ball joints on my truck. I never replaced ball joints before. Whats all involved? What tools will I need? Does anyone have a link to a step by step guide. Thanks ken

 

Here's one for starters: http://www.pavementsucks.com/tech/balljoint.php
If you search this forum, you will find a lot of information on this topic.

 

Check out this link. It's under 3rd gen in the articles section. Great pictures and writeup and it applies to second gen also.
http://wiki.dieseltruckresource.com/...nt_Replacement

 

If you buy them at Auto Zone, they'll loan you the correct tools for free.

 

AutoZone loaned me the tools for free (with $99.00 refundable deposit) and I bought my Spicer ball joints elsewhere. Just be prepared to fabricate your own adapters to use with the press. The AutoZone rental ball joint press is not really big enough to fit our trucks but it can be made to work if you thrive on challenges and frustration . Or, you can remove the steering knuckles with ball joints still attached and take them to a shop and have the old joints pressed out for you and new ones pressed in at the same time!

 

Take a sawzall and cut old ball joints. The ball joints are not the problem, its the bearing assembly.

 

Thats perfect. I think i'll give it a go. Im thinking about buying these tools for the job http://quad4x4.com/Ball%20Joint%20Tools%20for%204x4's.htm unless someone know a cheaper place. I know autozone gives loaners but I want to own the tools for future use.

 

I replaced my ball joints a few years back. First time job and did not run into any problems. I purchased the press from Harbor Freight tools. I did have to cut a piece of pipe to add to the tool. I just got the sale catalog. They are on sale for $32.99. Item 38335

 

I have a harbor freight pretty close. I just might have to go get that one. Sure beats $350 the other place wants for it.

 

used hf tool and it worked just fine

 

Do you guys think this tool will work on a 2000 with the riveted in ball joints? I guess I would need to find the right drill bit and drill out the rivets?? I have never changed ball joints before.

 

you do not need a press to change bj's on a 2 wheel drive......i know, i replaced mine

 

Thank you...do you happen to remember what size drill bit I need to drill out the rivets?

 

get a cheap grinder and grind the heads off the rivets and punch them out.dont drill

 

i tried to punch them out on my '01, not easy... you are better off drilling to relieve the expanded rivet before trying to punch them out.....