More Novice Help Please, Suspension, CV Joint and Front Suspension Disassembly Options

[Highland]

More amateur help please, this time with CV joint and front suspension:

1) I've only taken apart one axle, but I found some pitting on one of the outside bearing. Pictured is the worse example:



Can I address this by swapping the transmission end for the wheel end? I notice they ride in slightly different locations.

2) Having much trouble taking apart the front suspension.

a) Can I just use a fork to pry this off or do I need a puller/pusher device? I have neither so trying to avoid buying both. Soaking in PB Blaster now. Boot is already torn so a fork would do no damage, just looking for the easiest way.



b) According to the Haines Manual the bolt/pin shown is suppose to come out to release the ball joint (held in by a semi-circle feature?). Mine looks like it is permanently attached to the strut. How do I get it out?



3) When removing the control arms do the adjusters need to be wound loose? Can the cross support bar be left in place?

[Highland]

What is the proper tool for removing the pin attaching the strut to the A-arm ball joint?

Picture would be great (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

Do most just replace the ball joint? My boot is still solid, but is that the only criteria?

[Luke M]

What is the proper tool for removing the pin attaching the strut to the A-arm ball joint?

Picture would be great (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

Do most just replace the ball joint? My boot is still solid, but is that the only criteria?

Put the nut back on the threads, grab the biggest hammer you have and give it a good smack. Those pins are suppose to be a one time use only. You can buy new ones at PP, PMB or the dealer.

[Superhawk996]

What is the proper tool for removing the pin attaching the strut to the A-arm ball joint?

Picture would be great (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

Do most just replace the ball joint? My boot is still solid, but is that the only criteria?

Put the nut back on the threads, grab the biggest hammer you have and give it a good smack. Those pins are suppose to be a one time use only. You can buy new ones at PP, PMB or the dealer.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/agree.gif)

I prefer soft faced hammer (copper or brass) to minimize mushrooming of the stud and/or the nut. Best if you thread the nut almost all the way on leaving about 1/8" gap to the strut bottom. If this doesn't work with a good whack or two, heat the strut bottom with propane torch then try again. I've reused these pins before but the point was that if you bugger up the treads, they are replaceable.

Not a bad idea to replace ball joints on any car as old as teener's. Getting those off is another fun project. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/aktion035.gif)