how do i get the ball joints out?i thought the metal plate held them in but i guess not..thanks

 

Sometimes they are pretty tough.I used a slide hammer and heated the housing a little and they came right out.

 

i was going to take the slide hammer to it but wasnt sure if thats what it took..thanks

 

The plate is there just for insurance, the joint is press-fit in the strut.

 

thanks for the info..

 

Here is the best way that I found do do it. Disconnect the a-arm from the ball joint. Then remove the retaining plate. Next reconnect the a-arm. Use a torch to heat up the ball joint. It is a good idea to have some eye protection on though because that grease can explode. Once you get it good and hot, use a pry bar and put it between the a-arm and btoom of the strut. Next pry up forcing the a-arm down and pulling the ball joint out with it. Works really slick. Then what I do is freeze the new ball joint, best if left in freezer overnight. Then use some Triflow or silicone spray to help get the new ball joint back in. You can use a deep socket to hammer it back in. Be careful though. You need just the right socket too. Hope this helps some