Ball Joints

[scfall]

I need to change an upper and lower ball joint on opposit sides on my 91 K1500. They are still the factory joints and rivited in. Anyone have any tips or tricks to help me out?

Thanks Scott:burnout

[76chevyman]

you can drill out the rivits or use the trusty heat wrench. But i would replace both upper and lowers on both sides.

Rich:burnout

[sschario]

I just changed uppers on my '94 K2500. Drilled all the way thru the rivet with 1/8" bit and then drilled the top off with 1/2" bit. Then just knock 'em out with a punch.

I would check the control arm bushings while you are at it. My uppers were very loose at 135K.

Steve

[wyldman]

I don't even bother drilling anymore.I just use a sharp chisel in the air hammer to peel the heads off the rivets.Then switch to a blunt nose punch in the air hammer to push the remaining rivet through.

If you don't have access to compressed air,and air tools,then drilling is probably the easiest way.Don't rush it,take your time,and use good sharp bits.

[ratlover]

air chisel is my prefered tool for destruction ;) I bought a cheapy camblehousejunk and it works fine but the bits it came with suck.

And that cool little chisel holder dealy I got from snapon has saved numerous squashed fingers......might look into one. I never used a punch in the air hamer.....I guess I figure I screw up enough stuff without power tools :rolleyes:

[Joey D]

I like the grinder method. Grind the head off then punch them out. Very easy. I don't have a good compressor so the electric grinder is always ready.

[scfall]

Air Chisel, Heat wrench and Drill did the trick. Thanks to all.


Thanks Scott:burnout