How are ball joints mounted to the control arm?
A ball joint is made up of a housing, a ball stud, bearings, an end cover, and a Belleville washer or a spring. A Belleville washer is a conical-shaped spring designed to be loaded in the axial direction. The joint is attached to a control arm by pressing the joint into the arm or riveting the joint to the arm.
Should you replace control arm with ball joint?
There are several reasons why a control arm needs to be replaced. The most common reason is when a ball joint wears out, and it cannot be replaced separately. A worn-out ball joint can pop out causing the vehicle to lose control while driving. This means that a vehicle with a worn-out ball joint is unsafe to drive.
Is it easier to replace control arm or ball joint?
Changing the control arms is much simpler than the ball joints. The joints aren’t too bad a job, except on old cars they tend to get stuck or present other problems. The new arms will literally bolt in and just need an alignment.
Should I replace the control arm or the ball joints?
Another reason to replace a control arm is when it has been damaged or bent after hitting a pothole or curb. The choice of whether to replace only a ball joint or bushings or the entire control arm often depends on the price, the overall condition of the arm and part availability. What is more cost-effective?
How do you replace a ball joint on a car suspension?
If your auto’s suspension uses pressed-in ball joints, you’ll need to remove the lower control arm and take the assembly to a mechanic with a hydraulic press, who can press the old ball joint out and the new ball joint in. Guide the new joint through the knuckle hole.
How is the front lower control arm attached to the frame?
The front lower control arm is attached at its inner end to the engine or suspension cradle by rubber bushings and at the outer end by a ball joint to the wheel hub.
Should I replace the control arm or the bushings?
If the control arm is damaged due to impact, or if the bushings and/or ball joint need replacement due to wear, it is more time and cost-effective to replace the entire arm as it generally comes complete with new bushings and ball joint.