How to replace a press-in ball joint on a car

How to replace a press-in ball joint on a car
This article will guide you through the process of inspecting a press-in joint.

Do you suspect a possible damaged joint, also known as a ball joint? Replacing a joint is not the same process for every vehicle, as there are several different types of joints. In the video below, we will look at how to replace a press-in joint. Specifically, we will look at how to replace a joint on a Honda Civic. The Delpi joint with the code TC1299 is installed.

How do I know if my car needs a ball joint replacementt?

Some common signs include:
1. Unusual noises while driving
2. Unsteadiness while driving
3. Problems with steering

What should I look for when checking the ball joint?

Remember, the rubber dust boot on the joint is key. A common problem is that the dust boot breaks, the grease leaks out and this causes problems. Normally when inspecting a ball joint we look for movement outside the manufacturer's specifications, but for low friction joints that are used without grease, you should look for stuck joints that show no movement.

What tools do I need to replace a press-in ball joint?

 

Steps for replacing a press-in ball joint.

Be sure to follow manufacturers recommendations for installation, torque specifications, where applicable.

Removing the ball joint

1. Use side cutters to remove the cotter pin securing the retaining nut.
2. Use a socket wrench to remove the retaining nut.
3. Use a socket wrench to remove the axle nut.
4. Slide the axle back through and unscrew the pivot, moving it to access the pivot.
5. Separate the ball joint from the lower control arm with your ball joint extractor. You can use a wrench to use the tool, using the appropriate size socket. You will hear a sharp, clear snap when the pin (bolt) comes off the lower control arm.
6. Slide the drive shaft back through the hub assembly. You may need to use an axle press and wrench to get things started, as often the drive shaft can dry out or seize up over time. Make sure you can unscrew the axle shaft and support it (perhaps with a piece of wood or a tool). This will free the lower pivot.
7. Push the outer driveshaft end back through the hub assembly to release it, but make sure you don't pull the inner driveshaft end out of the transmission. You only want to remove the pivot.
8. Remove the axle press with a wrench.
9. Remove the pivot and suspension so your press can access the ball joint.
10. Remove the dust boot by tapping it off with a hammer and screwdriver. A new dust boot is included with the new ball joint. Clean the exposed ball joint bolt with a rag.
11. Set up your ball joint press. The adapters you need to use are vehicle specific. The upper and lower cones match the top and bottom of the hinge.
12. Move the press inward to press out the old ball joint with a socket wrench and ball joint press.
13. Remove the upper and lower accessories and remove the old ball joint. If it comes out clean with the press, just double-check the joint for any edges to worry about or hidden damage.

 
 
Ball joint separator
 		   Remove the axle nut.
 
 
Install the upper adapter onto the ball joint.   Install the lower adapter onto the ball joint.
 
 

Replacing the ball joint

1. As a rule of thumb, always check the new and old components side by side to make sure your new part fits the one that came out. Remove the new retaining nut and plastic shipping cover.
2. Insert the new ball joint into the knuckle and make sure it is flat.
3. The adapters used to install the ball joint are different from the ones you used to remove the old one. The small, specially designed adapter fits snugly over the top of the ball joint. Install it and place the press on top of the upper adapter.
4. The lower adapter fits over the large screw under the ball joint, leaving room for the pin and threads to not be damaged during the installation process.
5. Make sure everything is square and flush with the knuckle, and wind up the press to hand tighten it. It is very important to press the joint in a flat and square manner so that the joint is centered and aligned with the knuckle. Move as you tighten to make sure everything stays straight.
6. Once you are sure you have clearance and everything is secure, use a socket wrench to finish pressing the ball joint with the press.
7. Once the top joint of the joint is firmly in contact with the knuckle, you can remove the press. Make sure there are no nicks or damage to the rubber boots and that the threads are intact and undamaged. Check that the ball joint is fully depressed. 
8. Begin to slide the driveshaft back into the wheel bearing. Apply a small amount of rust penetrant to help it slide back in properly. Align the splines with the hub. 
9. Reattach the knuckle and the new ball joint bolt to the lower tie rod. Make sure the axle goes through properly and starts to poke through the outside of the hub. 
10. Add the retaining nut and tighten with a wrench. 
11. Add the cotter pin.
12. Reinstall the axle nut and torque it to the manufacturer's specifications. If you don't get it all the way in, you can grab the outer joint for help.
13. Finally, you can safely lower the vehicle to the ground. Finish the job and move the car to the bridge stand.
Now you have completed this job!
 
 
Press up.
 		   The ball joint is loose from the pivot.
 
Roll up the ball joint press.   Attach the ball joint bolt to the control arm.
 

Do I need a mounting bracket?

No retaining clip (or retaining ring) is required for part TC1299. The OE unit did not have a retaining clip and the Delphi OE design is exactly the same, so no clip is required. The new part comes with a pin and nut for complete installation.

How many times can the ball joint of the same vehicle be replaced?

Follow the manufacturer's recommendations. There is only one replacement option for this part, TC1299, per OE. If the joint needs to be replaced again, OE recommends purchasing a new ball joint and swivel joint and replacing both.


Some safety tips:

It is important to use a proper ball joint press. In the past, you could knock the ball joints out with a hammer, but this is no longer the best practice.
Make sure you have room to work. A ball joint press requires some space, so it is best to use a forklift. If you are working on the ground with trestles, make sure you have enough free space on the ground.


You can find the right hinge for your car here in the spare parts search.