jfley Posted October 21, 2013 Report Share Posted October 21, 2013 Hello Everyone, Somehow I posted this in the 2011 and newer forum in error so I apologize if I am wasting your time again. I have a 2000 S80 with 135k on it and I am going to do some front end work. Struts, control arms, ball joints and stab links. Besides having to possibly lift the engine to move out the control arm bolts I am concerned about the install of the ball joints. Getting them out seems straight forward , getting them back in without a hydraulic press is harder. I am hoping for some suggestions on install tools, maybe something I can buy local. I have seen a few, Sears, Amazon, Harbor Freight, etc but can anyone suggest a reasonable tool? I have air in my garage but no lift. I am willing to try anything, have not started yet so there is time and with your help I can plan. Thanks for everything Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Keaton85 Posted October 21, 2013 Report Share Posted October 21, 2013 I just use the bolts as long as I have enough thread in there and the ball joint is going in straight. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jfley Posted October 21, 2013 Author Report Share Posted October 21, 2013 Seems staright forward, will give it a try......looking at a week away before I get to attack it, have you had any other experiences with this that required the use of manual tool? Thanks for getting back so quick! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Volvo5.0 Posted October 21, 2013 Report Share Posted October 21, 2013 I've used the bolts to successfully pull the ball joints in, but I've also had the "ears" of a new ball joint get bent when using this method. The method I use now is to get the ball joint lined up and the bolts started, and then use a hammer and punch around the edges (don't hit the ears) of the ball joint to fully seat it, and then tighten the bolts. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jschaefer7406 Posted October 21, 2013 Report Share Posted October 21, 2013 The method I use now is to get the ball joint lined up and the bolts started, and then use a hammer and punch around the edges (don't hit the ears) of the ball joint to fully seat it, and then tighten the bolts. Agreed. Just make sure it goes in straight and doesn't become cocked. Some anti-seize on the splined part of the ball joint will allow it to slide in a bit easier as well . Hope this helps, Joe Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jfley Posted October 21, 2013 Author Report Share Posted October 21, 2013 You guys are the greatest.....should I try a large socket around the Ball joint as a method to tap in or stick with methodical and careful hammer and punch...hmmm sounds like I just answered my own question!Thanks again!Joe Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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