I am getting quoted about 5 hrs for this job @ average of $70 plus parts. 3 shops were almost $500. Is it really that hard?!? I need it bad, my tires are leaning in like my old lowrider, but damn I hate to spend that much on non modded maintenence! ANyone have any insight on the job? thanks

 

Yes,you will need a ball joint removal kit for 4wd,or do loan a tool from advance auto or auto zone.They are a pita to press out and press new in,but worth saving the extra money.

 

I dont think it was that bad, the job it made easy with the ball joint remover tools on loan, power tools, and some heat. You dont really need power tools but makes it faster. Oh and some larger sockets or LARGE crescent wrenches for the ball joint nuts.

All you have to do is pull the axle shafts with the unit bearing still attached to them, remove the ball joint nuts, hammer the knuckle off the ball joints, press out the bottom joint 1st, then the top and reverse for assembly. Then do the other side, simple

 

I smashed mine out with a torch and 3 lb sledge and pressed the new ones in not to bad deff cheaper then 500 bucks the ball joints should be like 200$ for all 4

 

just did some a couple days ago. used a harbor freight tool. not the best but it's put in 3 sets of ball joints this year. It helps if you have a extra set of hands there to hold all the adapters in place. push the top out first, and install the bottom one first. I use a impact gun to drive them in and out.

 

Is there a huge difference in no name part for ball joints? This is just over the price for one:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/140517131062...84.m1423.l2649

 

Let me ask you this: are you willing to save money now and change the ball joints again in a year or two? You get what you pay for most of the time. I would do research into those part companies.

 

friend bought spicer. had to replace them last week after only 300 miles. I used moog professional in mine last year, so far no problems. Napa brand is suppose to be good. that's what we replaced the spicers with.