no, I used the standard Autozone rental ball joint press. Does this mean I have ruined my ball joint? do I need to get another one - how do I tell?

I was able to get the whole unit back in and tightened. Not sure why it tightened this time and not last. The ball joint I assume is still loose as in easy to move around in the joint.

well, I am off to try and get it aligned at the local mechanics shop.