How to Replace Dodge Ball Joints
Regardless of the year of production of your Dodge, at some point the ball joints will need replaced. The ball joints are what connect the steering column to the two front wheel struts. If worn out, the ball joint can allow play in the steering and even cause increased tire wear. Replacing the ball joints is a simple process that any home mechanic can tackle with a little knowledge and the right tools.
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Things You'll Need
- Hammer
- Ball joint removal tool (pickle fork)
- New ball joint
- Lug nut wrench
- Car jack
- Allen wrenches
- Socket set
Instructions
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1
Jack the driver's side front wheel up off of the ground and use the lug nut wrench to remove the lug nuts and wheel. Turn the steering wheel all the way to the right so that you can easily access the ball joint on the side of the control arm.
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2
Use the socket set to remove the largest nut from the joint at the bottom of the entire structure. Slide the shank of the ball joint up through the steering knuckle of the control arm, place the tongs of the pickle fork on the ball joint and hit the shaft of the joint firmly with a hammer until the ball joint pops out.
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3
Use the Allen wrenches to loosen the two mounting bolts in the top of the ball joint. Raise the control arm, slide the old joint out and slide the new ball joint into place. Tighten down the two Allen bolts, slide the new rubber cover over the joint and then slide the ball joint into place on the control arm. Install the new mounting screw on the bottom of the joint and tighten with the socket wrench.
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4
Slide the wheel back into place, install and tighten the lug nuts. Lower the car and remove the jack. Follow Steps 1 through 3 to replace the ball joint on the passenger side.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Always replace both ball joints; replacing only one joint could throw your alignment off or make the car drive less consistently.
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Comments
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My experience was different. I replaced the lower ball joints on a 2001 Dodge Dakota Quad Cab. Here were my differences. 1. The ball joint was riveted to the A-arm with four rivets. The replacement ball joint came with replacement bolts. I was able to sheer the bolts with a chisel but it was not easy. I then used a drill bit to hollow out the bolt. I used a punch to hammer out the sheered remains. That was by far the hardest part of the job. 2. Put the weight of the vehicle on the A-arm just behind the rivets of the ball joint. 3. When putting the new part in, you can jack the vehicle slightly to get the new part in correctly at the best angle. 4. I removed the brakes and rotor, mainly because I replaced them as well. I needed a 7mm allen wrench, which is not part of the standard set.
