Removing the control arm question....

[etajohn]

I plan on installing new control arms with pre installed bushings. What tools do I need for removing the old control arms? Sometimes I hear talk of pickle forks but Pelican's online tutorial says you can just knock them out with a hammer after removing the ball joint nuts.
Thanks for any info.

[AlarmedBread]

You'll want a balljoint tool, pickle forks will work too if you aren't concerned with destroying the balljoint, but that and a hammer will make a frustrating day if the balljoints are rusty and stuck.

Go to autozone and tell them you need to do balljoints on a honda civic, you can rent the tool for a $40 deposit which you get back when you return the toolkit.

[CorvallisBMW]

Pickle forks work great. Sisnce you're replacing the balljoint, it doesn't matter if you tear the boots. It is much easier than doing it with a hammer, trust me :)

Also remember to 'pre-load' the balljoint when trying to tighten down the new nylon nuts. You'l fine that the balljoint stud will turn as you try to tighten the nut, so put a jack underneath the balljoint and put some pressure on it from underneath. That will stop the stud from turning and allow you to get the nut all the way on.

[etajohn]

Thanks!