Quote:
Originally Posted by networkboy
@tangofox007:
Thank you, I now understand
I'll be pulling the spindles off and visiting my local machinist with ball joints in hand (or is there any reason I should drive twice as far and go to my indy's shop?).
@bodyart27:
Cool, I can read more 
@Phil:
I think I'm going to buy the napa tool, as it's the same cost as a pickle fork, and if I have to cut it down, then I will need to buy one (something strikes me as rude, cutting down a tool you borrowed... )
I've got to agree, removing a spring that big w/o the proper tools sounds scary 
@All SAFETY QUESTION:
currently I have two of the classic strap metal with pin in barrel jack stands, and will be borrowing a pair of "proper" 10 ton stands as well. Assuming I have the car's frame on the heavy stands, is there any worry using the lighter stands to support the LCAs while I am off the the shop to get ball joints pressed in?
Cheers,
-nB |
I went to an indy because he had the MB ball joint press.
I got a joint separator like the one you had a picture of and it worked great on the upper joint but when I tried it on the lower it broke in half and then I switched to the pickle forks.
My stands are rated for 2 tons each and they work fine. Remember you are only holding up 1/4 of the car with each stand. If you put the stand under the frame rail remember that that rail is only sheet metal and will bend easily so put a piece of wood between the stand and the frame to spread the weight.