The ball joint is in the LCA. A spring compressor is not necessary for ball joint replacement. I haven't used my telescopic compressor on the front of the 124's, yet. Everything I've done - ball joints, struts/mounts, swaybar bushings - has been done with the spring in place. Just make sure the LCA is firmly supported!!

Jay.

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On the road, currently:
'83 300D (German spec.) 168k mi. - - Wolfgang (tucked snugly away for the winter!)
'87 300D 375k mi. - finally went over to "The Dark Side"
'87 300TD 225k mi.
Cannondale 66cm CAAD5 w/Campy/Jamis Aurora
Hujsak Custom Fixie/Landshark Track Shark Custom/Ahearne Custom 29'er