I hate not having a plan for the wax as I'm anxious to get it back together! I did get the ball joint to button up but that is after I wedged a medium size flat head screwdriver into the slit and pried it open a smidge. Also turning the steering forward as someone suggested seemed to help. Before these adjustments, I was also having trouble getting the pinch bolt past the "whistle-notch". Once the knuckle dropped right down onto the ball joint, it slid right through.

I had ordered the knock-off version of the Mercedes spring compressor from eBay about a month ago and I'm actually pleased how well it worked for this job! It was a bit unnerving but I took my time and didn't hurry through the process and all worked very well. It was a tool well worth the $45 I paid for it (that's another story [emoji6]).

My tie rod end was suppose to be here today but failed to show so hope it arrives tomorrow so I can do that and get it off the jack stands and take it for a test drive! Any tips on the passenger side tie rod assembly would be welcome as it's a first time job for me as well [emoji846]

Dale

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Dale