How to Remove the Ball Joint on a Lincoln Navigator
by Nathaniel MillerThe Lincoln Navigator is a full-size SUV with a whole host of extra features, including an on-demand compressed air suspension system. Rarely does this vehicle need maintenance, but when it does you can save yourself quite a bit of money by performing the labor yourself. One area that needs maintained on a regular basis is the steering system, particularly the ball joints that connect the steering wheel connector arms to the suspension control arms.
Step 1
Slide the jack underneath the front driver's side of the frame and jack the Navigator up until the front tire is not touching.
Step 2
Slide a jack stand under the frame of the vehicle to ensure your safety as you work.
Step 3
Use the lug nut wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts of the wheel.
Step 4
Pull the wheel off of the studs.
Step 5
Use the socket set to remove the mounting bolts on the brake caliper and then slide the caliper off of the rotor.
Step 6
Unbolt the bottom of the control arm from the ball joint connector and slide the connector out of its mount.
Step 7
Insert the ball joint tool with the two prongs on either side of the ball joint and firmly strike the end of it until the joint pops free.
Step 8
Unscrew the two set screws on top of the connector assembly and pull the ball joint out of the connection arm.
Step 9
Inspect the ball joint for wear and tear or worn spots in the metal.
Step 10
Repeat these steps for the opposite (passenger) side of the Navigator.
Things You'll Need
- Socket set
- Jacks
- Jack stands
- Lug nut wrench
- Ball joint tool (Picklefork)
Warnings
- Make sure the parking brake is set anytime you are working underneath of your car.
