And I failed
I almost stripped both balljoint bolts, I don't know what to do now. I can't get the closed end of the wrench to go over the nut, but I can get hte open end on it. It starts to strips when I tried to loosen it. Only thing I got done today was the sway bar bushings. Any one know the part number for the nut, so if/when I get it off I can replace it?

Any tips?

 

You need to use the proper tools.

A 6 point 1/2 inch drive socket would have taken the nut off without stripping it.
You might be able to get a replacement nut at your local auto parts store.

 

But I can't get a socket over it, the axle is in the way.

 

Try getting a pair of vice grips clamped on there, then try tapping it with a sledge hammer, LIGHTLY. You should be able to get that nut or equivalent from Napa. They have a good selection of nuts and bolts. Good luck.

-Sean

 

Why don't you move the axle out of the way? that's what I did, and used a socket, got the nut out with a impact gun..

 

How do I move the axle out of the way?

 

I just replaced mu driver side LCA, and i had to disconnect the 2 strut bolts, also disconnected the outer tie rod and sway bar end link - then I removed the nut which secures the axle and i pushed the axle out of the hub - the hub will be supported by the balljoint so no worries there - once you get more room just use 1/2 inch drive socket and it should brake loose.

It still took me 3.5 hours just to change to LCA , and i had power tools and lift
simply i would not even tacle this job in garage on jackstands

Removing the rusty cotter pins that been there for 7 years was a major PITA
i had to cut them really short and using punch and small hammer drive them out piece by piece.

Inner tie rods are going in this week !!!


Nick.

 

If you can't get the nut off of the balljoint stud, you might want to consider just replacing the entire LCA.

 

he still needs to get that nut off the seperate the knuckle from LCA

and those 6 huge bolts that secure LCA to frame didn't want to budge even when using impact gun, i had to get a different one ( supposely with more torque)

Also - you'll need 27mm wreanch to loosen that nut at the front of control arm - I've had to use huge crescent wreach

power tools are must for this job

Nick.

 

yeah, i just tired it and no go-firestone had to save my ****.

 

I started to do this but gave up after looking at it for a few minutes and not being able to get the ball joint nut off. I guess I will just take it to a shop over spring break and let them do it.