[ford-lover]

Okay peeps, I have searched as best as possible, but dont see a thread
pertaining how to re & re LBJ's, on a 96/97 Explorer. I have both years & there is no difference from the front end parts.
Pic's would also be of great help also.

If I am wrong, close or move this thread to where it should be & place the link for me to follow.

Tks

 

[MissInformation]

Ball Joints

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION - 2WD

1995–99 Explorer and 1998–99 Ranger

Fig. 1: 2WD ball joint removal — except Mountaineer, 1995–99 Explorer and 1998–99 Ranger

Fig. 2: 2WD ball joint installation — except Mountaineer, 1995–99 Explorer and 1998–99 Ranger

NOTE: The ball joints are arranged such that if the upper ball joint is to be removed, the lower ball joint must be removed first. Conversely, the upper ball joint must be installed first, before the lower ball joint. Failure to install the upper ball joint before the lower will result in a lack of clearance for the installation tool.

1. Remove the steering knuckle.
2. Place knuckle in vise and remove snap ring from bottom ball joint socket if so equipped.
3. Assemble the C-frame, T74P-4635-C, forcing screw, D79T-3010-AE and ball joint remover T83T-3050-A or equivalent on the lower ball joint.
4. Turn forcing screw clockwise until the lower ball joint is removed from the steering knuckle.
5. Repeat the previous steps for the upper ball joint.

NOTE: Always remove the lower ball joint first

To install:

1. Clean the steering knuckle bore and insert lower ball joint in knuckle as straight as possible. The lower ball joint doesn't have a cotter pin hole in the stud.
2. Assemble the C-frame, T74P-4635-C; forcing screw, D790T-3010-AE, ball joint installer, T83T-3050-A and receiver cup T80T-3010-A3 or equivalent tools, to install the upper ball joint.
3. Turn the forcing screw clockwise until the upper ball joint is firmly seated.

NOTE: If the ball joint cannot be installed to the proper depth, realignment of the receiver cup and ball joint installer will be necessary.

1. Repeat the previous steps for the upper ball joint. Install the snap ring on the lower ball joint.
2. Install the steering knuckle.

Ball Joints

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION - 4WD

1995–99 Explorer and 1998–99 Ranger

NOTE: The ball joints are arranged such that if the upper ball joint is to be removed, the lower ball joint must be removed first. Also, when installing the upper ball joint, the lower ball joint must be installed first. Failure to install the lower ball joint before the upper will result in a lack of clearance for the installation tool.

1. Remove the steering knuckle.
2. Place knuckle in vise and remove snap ring from bottom ball joint socket if so equipped.
3. Assemble the C-frame, T74P-4635-C, forcing screw, D79T-3010-AE and ball joint remover T83T-3050-A or equivalent on the lower ball joint.
4. Turn forcing screw clockwise until the lower ball joint is removed from the steering knuckle.
5. Repeat the previous steps for the upper ball joint.

NOTE: Always remove and install the lower ball joint first P

To install:

1. Clean the steering knuckle bore and insert lower ball joint in knuckle as straight as possible. The lower ball joint doesn't have a cotter pin hole in the stud.
2. Assemble the C-frame, T74P-4635-C; forcing screw, D790T-3010-AE, ball joint installer, T83T-3050-A and receiver cup T80T-3010-A3 or equivalent tools, to install the lower ball joint.
3. Turn the forcing screw clockwise until the lower ball joint is firmly seated. Install the snap ring on the lower ball joint.

NOTE: If the ball joint cannot be installed to the proper depth, realignment of the receiver cup and ball joint installer will be necessary.

1. Repeat the previous steps for the upper ball joint.
2. Install the steering knuckle.

 

[Poppy]

Nice post Missy

I'd like to add that Autozone, and some other parts retailers offer a tool loan program, where one leaves a significant deposit, and gets it back upon return of the tools.

When I did my ball joints on my Bronco, I borrowed a hammer puller, ball joint press, and spindle adapter for the puller. Without those tools, the job whould have been a real bear!

 

[Boghog]

One of the benefits of having a compressor and an air chiesel it makes short work on the removal.

 

[ford-lover]

Q????

Remove the UCA.

I see the nut on the side to loosen, & which tool to pry the the UBJ out up.

Can I use a tie rod/pitman arm puller. Or is the usage of a pickle fork & the size pls, be more advantageous for this ap.
Now I know the spindle can be siezed against the LCA.
Where is a safe area on the knuckle to hit to free up? Pls be specific.
I dont want to hit a wrecker for a replacement knuckle, as they may sell me a warped or bent one.

I have the pressed ball joint, and all the parts. plus I have a compressor, impact wrench,
I plan to overhaul the entire front end on both of my explorers.

Tks.

 

[Boghog]

Check out this pictorial from another site I belong to.It's step by step and should be pretty helpful.
Lower Ball Joint Replacement How To (lots of Pictures) - Ford Explorer Ranger Enthusiasts "Serious Explorations"®