9 replies to this topic

[Mat Jackson]

Just starting a suspension strip down and am struggling to free up the the ball joints and track rod ends. I have the ball joint splitter tool but can't get the fork in place even with a big hammer, to even start screwing it open. Is there a knack to it?

[RabnaKS]

You're inspiring me, I'm getting ready to start mine this weekend, I'm hoping either of mine in my tool box is sufficient? So I'll be watching this thread with interest!

[dave_dub86]

Check the fork on the ball joint splitter is wide enough. I had exactly the same problem and had to modify the fork wider (angle grinder). It was only a cheap one from Halfords though.

[Mat Jackson]

Tool seems to fit a one ball joint was free so I could check it. Would expect it to fit as it is the elise parts one.

[Mr Apex]

It is a bit of a knack - I put grease over the rubber gaiter to help - you also need to adjust the steering in order to get the correct angle and you need to approach from the correct side. Then you hammer the fork into place. Use penetrating oil on the thread of the old ball joint and allow it plenty of time to work before you start - if you are changing really old ball joints, that could be the difference between a reasonably easy job and an angle grinder nightmare. 

[Gedi]

What part are you having problems with? The splitting of the hub and wishbone?

 

I'm guessing you're using this http://www.elisepart...d-removal-tool/

You don't want the elise parts tool for this job, it's crap. You just want a simple ball joint splitter. This one works a treat  https://www.machinem... joint splitter

Edited by Gedi, 05 June 2015 - 07:00 AM.

[Pidgeon]

BJ's will split with one or several sharp hammer taps to the side of the component they are fitted to.  You don't need a splitter.

[hairy]

What part are you having problems with? The splitting of the hub and wishbone?

 

I'm guessing you're using this http://www.elisepart...d-removal-tool/

You don't want the elise parts tool for this job, it's crap. You just want a simple ball joint splitter. This one works a treat  https://www.machinem... joint splitter

 

that worked for me too.

[Mat Jackson]

Cool. .. a good excuse to buy another tool....

[RabnaKS]

I have a variation to the Elise one & it's worked on other wishbone types on rom cars, but it's good to know the fork type work as I have one of them in the old toolbox. I've never ever had any success loosening a ball joint from hitting the wishbone?