How to Replace a Ball Joint in a 1986 Camry

Many people take care of their own vehicles, doing such jobs as oil changes and replacing worn brake pads. The ball joints of a vehicle, however, are often overlooked. A ball joint holds its respective steering knuckle in place as you drive. Ball joints wear out over time and must be replaced. A bad ball joint can cause you to lose control of your vehicle because you basically have a loose wheel. If your 1986 Toyota Camry needs a new ball joint, you may save money by replacing it yourself. The task requires less than two hours of work.

Instructions

1

Park the car on level ground. Loosen the lug nuts slightly. Raise the front of the vehicle with a floor jack, following the manufacturer's instructions that came with the jack.

2

Place jack stands under the vehicle. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for proper placement of the stands. Place chocks snugly behind the rear wheels. Lower the vehicle until it rests securely on the jack stands.

3

Remove the lug nuts with a lug wrench. Remove the wheel affected by the ball joint that is to be replaced.

4

Raise the lower control arm slightly with the floor jack. This will support it while you are working on it. The ball joint is located on the outer end of the control arm.

5

Remove the cotter pin from the ball joint nut with a pair of pliers. This nut is facing down.

6

Attach the ball joint puller to the ball joint, following the manufacturer's instructions. Remove the ball joint.

7

Install the new ball joint in the control arm. Install the retaining nut. Tighten the nut to 67 foot pounds by using a torque wrench. Install a new cotter pin.

8

Lower the control arm and remount the wheel. Tighten the lug nuts.

9

Repeat the process on the other front wheel of the vehicle.