How to Change the Ball Joints on a 2003 Ram 2500

You will need to replace the ball joints on your 2003 Dodge Ram 2500 if they are ever damaged in an accident. Ball joints also sometimes require replacement as a result of normal wear and tear. Located behind the front wheels, between the control arm and steering knuckle, the ball joints are essential for steering your Dodge truck. You may replace the ball joints in under an hour if you have the appropriate tools.

Instructions

1

Loosen and remove the wheel nuts from the front wheels using a lug wrench.

2

Raise the truck with a jack and safely support the front end with jack stands.

3

Remove the bolts from the strut bar with a socket wrench and pull the strut bar off of the lower control arm.

4

Attach a spring compressor to the coil spring.

5

Remove the lower control arm's cotter pin using pliers. Loosen the lower ball joint nut with a socket wrench, but do not remove it yet.

6

Separate the ball joint from the control arm with a pickle fork. Remove its four bolts with a socket wrench.

7

Remove the ball joint nut and pull the ball joint off of the truck.

8

Place the new ball joint onto the lower control arm and reattach the four bolts. Reattach the ball joint nut and cotter pin.

9

Remove the spring compressor and reattach the strut bar.

10

Remove the jack stands, reattach the front front wheels and lower the truck.