Ball joints can become worn down and need to be replaced. You can save some money by doing it yourself instead of going to a mechanic. Make sure you know what you are doing ahead of time. As with all mechanical jobs, consult the manual that came with your vehicle.
Also, how do you change a lower ball joint on a 2006 Ford Explorer?
Also know, can you replace upper ball joint without replacing control arm? Yes, you can replace the upper ball joint while the UCA is still in the car. Some ball joints can be replaced independently of the control arm, but not an easy DIY (need a press to get the ball joint out)!
People ask also, how do you check ball joints on a Ford Explorer? To check a ball joint for horizontal play you need to grab the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock positions of the wheel and rock the top and bottom of the wheel in and out. If you can hear clunking or grinding or you can see excessive movement in the ball joint then it probably needs to be replaced.
Likewise, how long can you drive on a bad ball joint? short answer is… it depends on how bad they are. the lower ball joint typically gets more wear than the upper. i’d say, if there’s just a little wiggle in either joint, you should have no problem driving 500 miles.
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Do you need an alignment after replacing ball joints?
alignment after ball joint is not necessary unless your previous alignment was done when ball joints were bad and loose. If your car is driving sloppy after ball joints replacement, check other suspension…
How much torque do I need to press a ball joint?
Many ball joints may have an initial torque spec as low as 15-30 ft/lbs and torque angles are between 140º and 225º. Never guess or try to use your calibrated elbow; always look up the spec and use a torque wrench. make sure the washers on the studs are in good condition and installed in the right direction.
How do you change upper ball joints?
How do you change the upper control arm on a 2006 Ford Explorer?
Is it easier to change a ball joint or control arm?
Changing the control arms is much simpler than the ball joints. The joints aren’t too bad a job, except on old cars they tend to get stuck or present other problems. The new arms will literally bolt in and just need an alignment.
How often should ball joints be replaced?
Generally speaking, you should expect to have to have your ball joints replaced between 70,000 to 150,000 miles of driving. Excessive play in the joint can cause additional wear, and if a ball joint fails, your car’s suspension could collapse and you could lose control of the vehicle.
How long does it take to replace ball joints and control arms?
It can take a little over an hour to get it replaced, so the full ball joint replacement cost will be between $100 and $400. You never know how much the mechanic is going to charge you until you get the replacement done, but it can help to have an estimate beforehand.
What does it sound like when a ball joint goes bad?
metallic clunking noise: one of the most noticeable and common symptoms of a bad ball joint is a clunking or knocking noise when the suspension moves up and down. a worn ball joint will begin to rattle inside the socket when driving over an uneven road, rough terrain, potholes or speed bumps.
What sound does a bad ball joint make?
Noise – this can be a clunking or squeaking noise. Clunking noises are caused by the worn ball joints rattling as the suspension travels up and down over the road. The squeaking noise is caused by the rubber boot that protects the grease inside the ball joint is damaged, the ball joint will start to squeak.