Just like any other automotive repair work, things will go a lot easier if you have the right tool for the job. If you are going to replace a worn out joint then a ball joint tool will save you time, money and frustration. Using the incorrect tool will more than likely do more damage than good.
Here are some other tools that you are going to need.
A jackLug Wrench
Jack Stand ( This is optional but highly recommended)
The first thing you need to do is loosen the lugs nuts on the tire, then jack up your vehicle. For safety, I would highly recommend using a jack stand once you have the vehicle at the desired height. Make sure that your jack stand is secure. As a caution I never work underneath a vehicle even if it is on stable secure jack stands. It is not worth getting crushed.
Once the vehicle is safely and securely on a jack stand, finish remove the lug nuts and remove the tire. With the tire out of the way, now you can easily get to that worn out joint. On some vehicles you might have to remove the brake caliper and rotor in order to get to the bad joint.
Of course every vehicle is different but generally there are two types of joints and some vehicles actually have two per side. Remove the retaining nut or clip that holds the old ball joint in place. Now it is time for the ball joint removal tool to do what it was designed to do. Some ball joints are pressed in at the factory and removing them can be really tough. Once you have removed the old joint, install the new one and put everything back together. Some vehicles will require an alignment after replacing the bad joint.
Here are a few benefits of a properly working joint.
Safety! A worn out ball joint can cause you to lose control of the tire that is connects to.Better gas mileage. Everyone wants better gas mileage. A bad ball joint can cause extra strain and wear on your vehicle.Your tires will not prematurely wear out.Tight and accurate steering.No more vibrating steering wheel!I hope you found this article useful and please remember safety first!