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Observations on ball joint pressing

Discussion in '5th Gen 4Runners (2010-2024)' started by Ctreg, Aug 8, 2024.

  1. Aug 8, 2024 at 7:08 PM
    #1
    Ctreg

    Ctreg [OP] New Member

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    Pressed out old freedom off road uca ball joints only to discover I got the wrong size ball joints to press in. So I decided to dig out my oem arms and press the new ones into those to hold me until I can get the right size ones. Used a Harbour freight Maddox press clamp thingie. First observation is you begin to question your life choices as you are doing the job. Second observation is not one part of this job is fun. Final observation on completion is you apricate your cheapness somewhat because new arms with pre pressed joints are expensive. Dreading doing to lowers. Oh, PS c-clips were invented in hell.
     
  2. Aug 8, 2024 at 7:26 PM
    #2
    backpacker

    backpacker New Member

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    The last time I pressed a ball joint was 1988, well after midnight because I needed it got get to work the next morning. I hope I'll never have to do another.
     
    2Toys likes this.
  3. Aug 9, 2024 at 6:40 AM
    #3
    totalnoobfishing

    totalnoobfishing New Member

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    You didn't Youtoob it for our viewing enjoyment? ...LOL misery loves company
     
  4. Aug 9, 2024 at 8:01 AM
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    2ndGen22re

    2ndGen22re Goldie, my 1st love & my new kid…

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    One-at-this-price stripper. Bought new 34 yrs ago, a $13K leftover. Added Detroit TruTrac, 1”rear spring spacer and “pinstripes”… Factory AC kit and roof rack bought at dealer cost at time of purchase, still blows ice cold 32yrs later. 2022 AG ORP all stock.
    Did you use heat on the A-arm before trying to pressing it out and put the ball joint in the freezer for at least an hour before pressing it in? It helps a lot.
    I put my new ball joints in the freezer overnight and heat the a-arm with a propane/map gas torch just before pressing.
     
  5. Aug 9, 2024 at 8:18 AM
    #5
    Ctreg

    Ctreg [OP] New Member

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    Probably should have, but sadly didn't.
     
  6. Aug 9, 2024 at 8:22 AM
    #6
    Kyblack76

    Kyblack76 New Member

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    Why did they need replaced to begin with?
     
  7. Aug 9, 2024 at 8:55 AM
    #7
    Ctreg

    Ctreg [OP] New Member

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    Rusted, ripped boots due to mud/water from off roading. The balls were dinged once I looked inside as well.
     
  8. Aug 9, 2024 at 9:01 AM
    #8
    totalnoobfishing

    totalnoobfishing New Member

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    Always done this...never heated up the arm... pure brilliance !!!


    Even still was it toast (loose) or was this more proactive?

    I only ask because I've replaced an after market rubber boot and packed with grease...BJ was still sound. That was a 5 minute job.
     
  9. Aug 9, 2024 at 11:29 AM
    #9
    Ctreg

    Ctreg [OP] New Member

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    Not toasted but maybe another 8-12 months left on them. Here is an example of one that I tried to save. TEMP_20240808_202433.jpg
     
    totalnoobfishing likes this.
  10. Aug 9, 2024 at 12:13 PM
    #10
    totalnoobfishing

    totalnoobfishing New Member

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    Gotcha.... good man. You've done your part for sure
     

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