Removing Suspension Joints

[Dick Stachowiak <stachowiak@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Lately, the topic of removing tie rods and ball joints has come up 
often.  It seams that the tool of choice is the big f-ing hammer 
followed by a pickle fork.  Either method typically destroys the joint 
or rips the boot .  If you have compressed air, try using an air impact 
hammer with a tapered punch attachment.  You can get one for under $20 
from Harbor Freight of Wall-Mart.  Start by loosening the nut on the 
joint to the point where it's almost off.  The nut is left on so the 
joint wont fly off in the next step.   In the center of the stud you 
will see a slight depression, place the tip of the punch in it and pull 
the trigger.  In just a few raps of the impact hammer the joint will 
separate.  Sometimes if you have a really stubborn one, it helps to 
support the area near the joint.  I use a small bottle jack and jack up 
from below.  I believe the high frequency vibration from the impact 
tool is the secret.  I have never had a joint that didn't respond to 
this procedure, and it has never damaged a joint.  It also works great 
for removing the flywheel off your lawn mower engine.

Dick Stachowiak
East Syracuse, NY

71 Spider
71 GTV
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