removing the lower ball joint (1992 SHO)

[JaredC]

Hi guys, I want to start off by saying that I'm 17 years old and I recently bought a 1992 taurus SHO for a project car..... it has a blown engine and so I'm in the process of doing my first engine swap (I'm learning a TON!). I'm having trouble disconnecting the lower ball joint (so I can remove the half shaft from the transmission)... is there something I'm missing? a trick perhaps? a tool? help would be appreciated!

 

[itwonder]

Loosen and remove the pinch bolt above the ball joint. Now you need leverage. I use a 6' Digging Bar; though a length of pipe, bar, or any strong metal will work. Standing in front of the axle, rest the bar on top of the strut tension rod, and slide it under the frame rail. Pushing the bar down will apply pressure to the strut rod, and that will force the LCA down, and the ball joint will separate from the knuckle. If it does not separate, try some penetrating oil and bounce the bar. It will come loose. If it is super stuck, you might have to drive a screwdriver blade into the split in the knuckle where the ball joint stud goes through, and spread it open just a touch.

 

[Irish Pride]

 

[JaredC]

I guess I'll have to get a longer prybar thanks guys!

 

[Mike Kelly]

A gandy dancer bar works well also.