stuck ball joints??

I've removed the front beam from my '62 to get it narrowed and now want to remove the steering arms so they can be narrowed to suit. However I cannot shift the ball joints attached to the ends of the steering arms where they meet the brake assembly (I think it's called the steering knuckle?). I've also tried to remove the ball joints that link to the arm connected to the steering box, but no joy there either. I'm now thinking I should have done this before I removed the beam so I had more leverage (doh!)

My Haynes manual suggested using a hammer to tap the threaded end on the pin hole sides to free it, or use an extractor tool? I've tried the hammer approach (rubber hammer) but the thing isn't gonna shift. Is it threaded into the steering knuckle? Does anyone know what the extractor tool is, or where I can get one (Do I need it?)

Any advice?

Ty
Nick

Hi

Don't hit the thread, actually its best to have the nut in place covering the threads, just in case. Swinging two hammers simultaneously and hitting on the knuckle just above the nut will usually get them to pop out.

I use a tool like the one below, failing that you could unscrew the tie rod arms from the tierod.

Steve

I have a home made version fot eh tool above. Works first time, every time!! though seeing 10m plate steel bend over only 100mm is a little worrying!! (only happens on really old BJ, ie cars sat for 20 years in the open)

you can get these from Super Cheap Auto.
they dont cost much.
they are not a lever they are a chisel type so you hit the end with a hammer and the wedge does the work.

hope this helps

Hi

There is one like I use on Ebay now for $24.95 item number # 200391134355. These work really well and when the ball joint cracks it almost like a non event.

Steve

Thanks all, I'll investigate the extractor tools mentioned above, the one on Ebay looks promising.

you can use a heavy hammer as well

undo the nut half way and hit the arm on the side it should pop out

the pullers are the best method

The fork ones can damage the boot and it puts a sideways load on things. The bolt/hinged type are easy and yoc can use them on any ball joint. With the lever you need it all strapped down well (ie still on the car).