Tools Required

J 36226 Ball Joint Separator

Notice: Use only the recommended tools for separating the ball joint from the knuckle. Failure to use recommended tools may cause damage to the ball joint and seal.

Important: If the ball joint is separated for related suspension/driveline service, the ball joint seal should be inspected for damage. A damaged seal will cause joint failure. The ball joint should be replaced if seal damage is found.

1. Raise and support the vehicle by the frame, allowing the control arms to hang free. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
2. Remove the wheel and tire. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Wheels and Tires.
3. Remove the cotter pin from the ball joint and loosen the nut.



4. Using the J 36226 , remove the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
5. Loosen the stabilizer shaft link nut.

Important: Do not damage the drive axle seals when drilling out the ball joint rivets.

6. Drill out three rivets retaining the ball joint.
7. Remove the ball joint from the knuckle and control arm.

1. Install the ball joint to the knuckle and align with the holes in the control arm.

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

2. Install three ball joint bolts facing down, and the nuts.
3. Install the ball joint nut.

Tighten

•	Tighten the ball joint to control arm nuts to 68 N·m(50 lb ft).

•	Tighten the stabilizer shaft link nut to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).

•	Tighten the ball joint nut to 10 N·m (88 lb in). Then tighten an additional 120 degrees (2 flats on the nut) during which a torque of 55 N·m (41 lb ft) must be obtained.

4. Install the cotter pin. In order to align the slot, tighten the nut up to one more flat.
5. Install the wheel and tire.

Tighten
Tighten the wheel nuts to 140 N·m (100 lb ft).

6. Lower the vehicle.