How to replace the Ball Joints on a Jeep Cherokee
While I don’t fully understand the mechanism, our off road group has found a strong correlation between worn ball joints and broken front axle shafts. I did not really believe the theory until my ARB shaft broke. See the video of it breaking.

With the weight off the wheel you can see the joint separating.

I got my new ball joints from Crown Automotive. I installed the driver’s side ones last night.
Before I began, I coated my hands with Market America Clear Shield.
First, I lifted up the Jeep and removed the wheel.

Then, since this is an AMC Jeep, I used my 7mm hex bit to remove the brake calipers. Mopar Jeeps will use either a 12 or 13 mm socket.


Next I removed the brake pads and rotor hat.



I stored the brake caliper on top of the lower control arm and removed the pads and the rotor to expose the bearing.
Next I used a 13mm 12 point socket to remove the three bearing retainer bolts.

I carefully tapped the carrier out of the knuckle. I left the axle in the bearing since it will go right back in.

Next, I used a 3/4 inch wrench to remove the tie rod from the knuckle. This step is not absolutely, necessary but makes it easier.


Next I removed the retainer bolts from both ball joints.

I used my tie rod separator to separate the ball joints from the knuckle. It came off rather unexpectedly and hit the floor. Glad it missed my foot.

Next I used a wire brush to clean up the surfaces where the press would rest.

I collected the correct adapters to press out the upper joint.

The upper joint pressed out easily

Next I collected the correct adapters to press out the bottom joint. Note that the screw for the press had to pass through the upper ball joint hole.

The lower joint was very worn.

Then I collected the correct adapters to press in the new ball joints. Note that this is a newer Dana 30 and the surface for the press is slanted requiring a tapered adapter. Some of the older axles had this surface machined flat.

Pressing in the lower requires a tapered receiver cup on this axle.

With the new joints installed I began to put it all back together. There is not enough clearance for a grease fitting on the lower joint. The kit came with a fitting that I put in temporarily and grease the joint. I then replaced the plug.

I then installed the knuckle and tightened the bolts. I then inserted cotter keys to keep the nuts from turning.

I then replaced the tie rod and keyed it.

Next I greased the inside of the knuckle and reinstalled the bearing and axle shaft. I used the bolts to pull the carrier into place.

Next I reinstalled the brake rotor, pads and caliper.

With the wheel back on I am done and ready to do the other side. Well maybe later.

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Hi what are the part numbers for the press and adaptors that you used? Mostly need the adaptor part#’s so I can buy just them and replace my balljoints. Good write up and thanks for your time.
This is the adapter set I have: http://www.harborfreight.com/14-piece-master-ball-joint-adapter-set-66958.html
This was a Fantastic wordpress post, I will be sure to save this post in my Propeller account. Have a good evening.
Great walk through! Wish I would have found this page before I had a mechanic replace mine for me, oh well, live and learn.
Thank you for another great article. Where else could anyone get that kind of information in such a perfect way of writing? I have a presentation next week, and I am on the look for such information.
Thanks for the good read an pictures Ball Joint replacement. I drove a 1990 Jeep Cherokee from Victoria BC to San Jose del Cabo Mexico and it is down there to stay. However the balls joints and shocks were shot when we left and are now getting done down there. There are alot of 1980s and 90s Jeeps, mainly Cherokees down in Cabo area and are really handy. We made the whole trip with out using a drop of oil or water no flats, I recommend the drive. cheers, Chuck Farrar Vancouver Island
Like any other suspension component, ball joints eventually wear and become loose. Excessive play in the joint can affect wheel alignment and tire wear. Loose joints can also cause suspension noise
Smart posting. Remember to keep up the very brilliant work.
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I guess, it comes down to 110625 simple choice!
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