Upper Ball Joint: Removal
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 15 other vehicles, including the 1992 Oldsmobile Bravada, 1992 GMC Yukon, 1992 GMC Suburban, 1992 GMC Sonoma, and 1992 GMC Safari. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Raise and support vehicle under lower control arms. Remove wheel and tire assembly. Remove steering knuckle. See STEERING KNUCKLE under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Remove brake line and brackets from upper control arm (if equipped).
- To remove upper ball joint from upper control arm, using drill and 1/8" (3.18 mm) drill bit, drill 1/4" (6.35 mm) deep hole in ball joint retaining rivets. Using 1/2" (12.7 mm) drill bit, drill out rivet heads. Using a hammer and small punch, drive out rivets and remove ball joint from upper control arm.
CAUTION:
When installing upper ball joint stud nut, tighten nut to align cotter pin hole. DO NOT tighten ball joint stud nut more than an additional 1/6 turn to align cotter pin hole. Complete tightening of upper ball joint stud nut with vehicle at proper riding height specification.