advice about track end ball joints

[PeteA]

I am new to the forum - so hello to fellow stagites!
MOT advisory required replacement of ns track end joint.
I replaced the ns main ball joint last year. It was a pig to get out and in the end I had to take the assembly to a garage to get it out and press in the replacement.
My question - is the track end joint easier to get out with a DIY sperator or do you still need some serious muscle?
Thanks for the advice......

Pete

[flying farmer]

Track rod ends are pretty easy and you don't need a seperator. Remove the nut and tap the end of the steering arm with a hammer. It is best to knock it on the end so the shock travels in line with the lower ball joint. The track rod end will simply pop out of the steering arm, great when removing good ball joints as it doesn't knacker the gaitor
A little upward pressure on the thread of the track rod end with a jack will help but isn't strictly necessary
Neil

[martin]

Hiya Pete, and welcome nice easy straightforward job, by all means use a separator, not necessary, but easier. You're scrapping the boot anyway. Martin.

[jakesmig]

Never used a separator, hammer works every time. As Neil says try applying pressure with a lever at the same time. If you're ever separating for maintenance instead of replacement, keep the ball joint nut on the last couple of threads just in case of an errant hammer strike.
John

[PeteA]

Thanks guys - much appreciated.
I like to tackle jobs if I can - I have a new joint from rimmers so will give it a go.
These days the stray hammer blows tend to hit my hands (must be fading eyesight!)
I assume that by counting the exposed threads on the rack end the tracking should be close to OK when locked in place. (Tyres currently wearing evenly.).
How long do you find these joints last - don't think it was replaced long ago based on the invoice record from the previous owner?
Cheers.

[ChasR]

Depends on if it is the original balljoint (I have once had to remove a balljoint with an oxyacetyline torch it was that badly seized onto the rack, but that car was a horror in many ways). Seperator does make it easier. Assuming things go smoothly, it should take you no longer than 30-40mins a side .

[Seaking]

Rember to get tracking checked afterwards