Ball Joint Stud Just Spins

[Hectorious]

Hi All,

I'm in need again of your collective wisdom. I'm reattaching my front swivel housing after replacing the swivel ball seal and retainer ring and I've run into what is hopefully my last challenge. I'm reattaching the steering arm to the ball joint at the end of the tie rod, but the ball joint stud just keeps rotating as I tighten the castle nut.

I can't see a way to secure that stud while I tighten the nut, without damaging the threads. Any ideas?

Chris

[island dormy]

Hi Chris

Sometimes they do that. If the thread is not damaged just gently grab the top of the ball joint with a big pair of pliers and pull it down towards the rod you will not hurt it. Then tighten the nut.

I see you are in Victoria do not forget about our Island pub meet on Saturday the 28th of November.

Victor 1962 Dormobile

[swamijake]

Easy way, impact gun.

Harder way, think that looks like a tuning fork that prys the joint apart to put pressure on the stud while tightening the nut.

[mepham55]

You can put a "C" clamp on the joint and eye and apply pressure to get the nut started, once it starts to tighten friction should hold it in place while you torque it to 30lb. If this doesn't work then your ball joint may be worn.

Matt

[Hectorious]

Thanks to all of you. I'll give it a try over the weekend when I can get some daylight, and let you know how I make out.

Chris

[Hectorious]

Success! I used a pry bar to firmly seat the taper on the bolt into the steering arm. That provided enough resistance to cinch the bolt up to the point that friction took care of the rest. Thanks for your help.

Chris