Upper Ball Joint Service

Typically, a pickle fork is used to separate ball joints from the steering knuckle/spindle on any car. Unfortunately, the combination of a pickle fork, a heavy hammer and too many blows can destroy the dust boot around the ball joint. This isn't a problem on older vehicles. (GM is one manufacturer that offers replacement dust boots for these cars and trucks.) However, original-equipment upper ball joints on many newer cars such as the current Camaro are sealed, which means that they're unserviceable. If you should tear the upper OEM dust boot, then the entire ball joint must be replaced.

Name Brands If you should tear the upper OEM dust boot, then the entire ball joint must be replaced.
For steering and brake parts in particular, it usually pays to use name-brand replacement parts. Cheaply made offshore components sometimes use lower-grade materials to keep costs down, and safety-related parts aren't an area worth compromising. Best of all, these components can even cost less at the auto parts store than purchasing OE-part-numbered items from the dealership. Everything you need to replace an upper ball joint should be supplied in any self-respecting kit. The Step photos show highlights of how it's done.