Tool Talk: Ball Joint Press/Seperator

[gmask]

OK.. I was hoping to R&R some of the ball joints on my 72 250 W114 but finding the right tool is not easy. I think I have found the correct Seperator.

http://www.samstagsales.com/images/sw11041.jpg

Looks like GR 1 would do the trick as far as removing the joints connected to the steering drop arm adn the idle arm.. right??

Here's some others that I found..

Seems like it would only work with the joints at the end of the arm??

Heavy Duty Extractor
Sir Tool BMW 3030 Item #1497
Needed for the proper disassembly of ball joint from lower wishbone. Applicable: Most every Mercedes model. BASE OF OPENING=25.5mm
http://www.autospecialtytools.com/catalog/images/SirM3030.gif

Heavy Duty Separator
Sir Tool M 3029 Item #1496
Needed for the proper disassembly of ball joints of drag links and tie rods. Applicable: Most every Mercedes model. BASE OF OPENING=21.5mm
http://www.autospecialtytools.com/catalog/images/SirM3029.gif

These look better because I could use using them with most any joint..

Tie Rod Separator
Sir Tool 1014 Item #948
Separator needed for disassembly of pitman arm type tie rod ends without tearing the ball joint boots.
http://www.autospecialtytools.com/catalog/images/1014.jpg

Tie-Rod Separator
Sir Tool 266H Item #944
Separator needed for disassembly of pitman arm type tie rod ends w/o tearing the ball joint boots.
http://www.autospecialtytools.com/catalog/images/266h.jpg

The other tricky tool to pick is the ball joint press. The trick is to not spend more than I need as these kits can run into the hundreds of dollars. Basically it looks likea C clamp with some special fittings so as not to damage the ball joint.

Autozone did have one of these that seems like it might work but the fittings seemed like they were too big.

Ball Joint Service Kit
OTC 7249
http://www.autospecialtytools.com/catalog/images/otc7249.gif
Here's some other kits I found

Manufacturer: OTC
7249
Ball Joint Service Tool Set
This set removes and replaces ball joints. The C-frame press alone can also be used to remove and replace universal joints. Ball joint removing/installing set for most press-fit ball joints. Wt., 15 lbs., 3 oz.
http://www.toolweb.com/pics/OTC7249.jpg


all Joint & 4 Wheel Drive Service Tool Kit

Manufacturer: Astro Pneumatic

7865

Ball Joint & 4 Wheel Drive Service Tool Kit
Features & Benefits:
* The heavy duty tool set is excellent for the removal and installation of press-fit parts such as ball joints, universal joint and truck brake anchor pins for 2WD and 4WD vehicles.
* It will remove even rusted and corroded parts.
* Set contains: C-frame press, 3 receiver tubes 2-3/4" x 3", 2-1/4" x 2-1/2" & 1-3/4" x 2" and installation and removing adapters
http://www.toolweb.com/pics/AST7865.jpg

[Mark V]

Check equipment rental places. I've been able to rent the removal tool kit in the past for about $10 for the day (weekend if you rent it on a Saturday)

[gmask]

Originally posted by Mark V
Check equipment rental places. I've been able to rent the removal tool kit in the past for about $10 for the day (weekend if you rent it on a Saturday)

I have tried that and the tool didn't really fit the purpose..

At any rate... of the tools I listed as having found for sale which of them looked like the one you rented?