Re:Stub Axle Removal

["Leslie J. Singh" <Les.Singh@domain.elided>]

.Robert Jones wrote:
>Hi Folks,
>Can someone please advise me of the correct tool and method
>for the removal of the stub axles in Alfetta/GTV6/75/Milano/90 cars?
>
>The problem seems to be: how to undo the ball joints/tie rod ends
>without breaking something?  I am concerned that if I pound too
>hard on the ball joint removal tool (looks like a tuning fork), I will
>wreck my reconditioned steering rack, ball joints, etc. I wish to
>avoid buying new ball joints, if at all possible.
>

Those pickle-fork tools are a disaster and will destroy the rubber cap for
sure even if nothing else bends. The tool I've found great for these jobs
is one that has a short Y-fork, another short level hinged parallel with
the y and centred so that its end is opposite the open end of the Y, and
with a bolt threaded through one arm and acting on the other. This
arrangement works to force the bolt-end of the balljoint downwards forcing
the balljoint off. The one I've got is made in Asia somewhere (Taiwan?) and
looks indestructible. More importantly, it removes the main suspension
balljoint in the GTV no sweat, ......and price was about NZ$25 which right
now is about US$13, I think. 

By the way, its interesting to read the posts about front suspension
removal on Giuliettas and GTVs. According to all those people there is no
way I could have done what I did at least 6 times..... the last time just 6
months ago when I removed the complete suspension using a trolley jack. I
really must stop doing it :-) !

Regards all.

Les

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