How do you remove the front ball joints?

[Cyrix2k]

We're trying to remove the front axles and thought pressing the ball joints out would be the easiest path forward. We were wrong... We've tried the harbor freight ball joint press which snapped, an advance auto press which slipped off the stud and mangled the threads, and now two pickle / tuning forks which have done a lot of damage but the ball joint hasn't moved. We also tried heating the ball joint with a propane torch and no luck so far. Any tips?

[ard]

I have a higher quality BJ press, cranked it down, smack the end of the stud w a 1lb mini sledge.


BANG.


But I live in a no rust state....




Yes, they say dont hammer it. Whatever.

[Cyrix2k]

Unfortunately that's the first thing I tried and no dice (with what I believe is a 4 lb mini sledge too!). I've also tried hammering on the stud while the pickle fork is wedged in place to no avail. I don't know if rust is playing a role at this point although I do live in a region that gets snow & uses salt.

[80stech]

I would let some nut buster or equivalent soak at least over night, use heat, propane is usually not hot enough. Or take the knuckle out completely and support it on an anvil or vice as you give the ball joint stud a crack with the mini sledge. Maybe you could even support the knuckle with a jack stand, makes a huge difference with the pounding technique.

[crystalworks]

^That's how I did it. Floor jack to support the knuckle, thread the nut on so it's about flush with the top of the stud. Then a few swings with the 5lb mini sledge on the nut popped it out without too much fuss. Like Ard though, I also live in a no rust locale. Good luck.