Observations on ball joint pressing

Pressed out old freedom off road uca ball joints only to discover I got the wrong size ball joints to press in. So I decided to dig out my oem arms and press the new ones into those to hold me until I can get the right size ones. Used a Harbour freight Maddox press clamp thingie. First observation is you begin to question your life choices as you are doing the job. Second observation is not one part of this job is fun. Final observation on completion is you apricate your cheapness somewhat because new arms with pre pressed joints are expensive. Dreading doing to lowers. Oh, PS c-clips were invented in hell.

 

The last time I pressed a ball joint was 1988, well after midnight because I needed it got get to work the next morning. I hope I'll never have to do another.

 

You didn't Youtoob it for our viewing enjoyment? ...LOL misery loves company

 

Did you use heat on the A-arm before trying to pressing it out and put the ball joint in the freezer for at least an hour before pressing it in? It helps a lot.
I put my new ball joints in the freezer overnight and heat the a-arm with a propane/map gas torch just before pressing.

 

Probably should have, but sadly didn't.

 

Why did they need replaced to begin with?

 

Rusted, ripped boots due to mud/water from off roading. The balls were dinged once I looked inside as well.

 

Always done this...never heated up the arm... pure brilliance !!!

Even still was it toast (loose) or was this more proactive?

I only ask because I've replaced an after market rubber boot and packed with grease...BJ was still sound. That was a 5 minute job.

 

Not toasted but maybe another 8-12 months left on them. Here is an example of one that I tried to save.

 

Gotcha.... good man. You've done your part for sure