How to Install 1955-56 Ford Lower Ball Joints

Ball joints act as the pivot between the wheels and the steering linkage, performing a similar function to that of an elbow or knee on a human. As the ball joints are essential for steering your Ford vehicle, you should make sure that they are always in working order. It should take close to two hours to install new lower ball joints onto your Ford vehicle, so make sure to allow yourself enough time to complete the procedure.

Instructions

1

Park the Ford on a level surface and place wheel blocks behind them to prevent the vehicle from rolling.

2

Raise the Ford with a jack and support the vehicle on jack stands.

3

Support the control arm with a floor jack.

4

Remove the wheel nuts with a wheel wrench and pull both wheels off the vehicle.

5

Disconnect the electrical connector from the brake caliper and tuck the brake caliper behind the brake rotor.

6

Remove the connector nut from the vehicle's steering arm, using a socket wrench.

7

Remove the rotor from the steering arm by simply pulling it off.

8

Uninstall the three bolts from the steering linkage. This will allow access to the lower ball joints.

9

Remove the cotter pin and control arm nut with a socket wrench. Remove the bolts holding the lower ball joint to the vehicle. Pull the lower ball joint off the vehicle, using a ball-joint fork.

10

Inspect the ball joint before installation, making sure it is not cracked or damaged. Rub off any dust or debris that may be on the joint. Apply some grease to the ball joint.

11

Install a replacement ball joint and reattach the bolts, the nut and the cotter pin. Tighten the bolts to 45 foot-pounds with a torque wrench.

12

Reattach the bolts to the steering arm. Tighten them to 32 foot-pounds. Reinstall the rotor and the connector nut.

13

Reconnect the electrical connector to the brake caliper and reattach the front wheels.

14

Remove the jack stands from the front of the vehicle and lower the car with the jack.