Ball Joint Separation Tool

Hey, I'm going to replace the diff seal on my front end CV axle. This requires separation of the ball joints on the tie rod and LCA. This is the first time I've done this type of operation, and I'm a little confused on the correct tool to use for this. There seem to be different types of ball joint separators, and I'm not sure which is best for this vehicle, and for these two locations. I would appreciate any help. Thanks!

 

So you’re replacing the inner axle seal? I haven’t done it on a 4runner yet, but what ball joint are you trying to separate? Your goal is to remove the axle to gain access to the inner seal correct?

 

Yes, that’s right. It is necessary to free up the spindle by separating it from the tie rod and the lower control arm. These are ball joints.

 

I see. I’ve never had issues with it, usually a couple whacks with a hammer has served me well and it’ll loosen it up and you can just push it down and free it. That’s just my experience.
I’m sure something like this would work just fine. You probably already saw this article, but in case your haven’t hopefully it helps you in the process.

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Ok, good info. At least one video did show the “hammer whack” method, but I wasn’t sure if that was advisable or not. Since I live in a very mild climate with almost no rust or corrosion on the suspension components, I expect your method may work just for for me. We

 

If you are wanting to salvage the ball joint don’t use the forks; hit it with a hammer. Old ones can be hard to separate sometimes. Remember to leave the nut on with a couple of turns especially if using those fork separators. Stuck joints can come apart with a surprising amount of force.

 

You can unbolt just the lower ball joint mount and that’s enough to get the axle out.

 

This ^^

 

yup, this would be the simplest route. Might be a good idea to mark the alignment adjuster bolts in case they move on you.