Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement

[daswerve]

98 Spyder GS: Upper Control Arm Ball Joint is shot. The boot is ripped, the nut came off, and it ruined the threads on the bolt istelf. Can someone PLEASE tell me: can JUST the ball joint be replaced, or does the entire control arm need replaced? I've read numerous posts here and half say the former is true, and half say the latter is true. I purchased the ball joint from NAPA today, but am afraid to try removing the old one b/c I don't know if it's possible or not.

Much thanx in advance

 

[SlowSpyder]

You can remove them easily if you have access to a hydraulic press

 

[daswerve]

And if I don't have access to a hydraulic press, then what?

 

[Rx3]

BFH - Big Fucking Hammer. And lots of heat.

Hit the threaded side with the hammer. Vice or some other way of stabilizing the arm is necessary.

 

[daswerve]

First, wanted to say thanx to those who replied. Your help is appreciated!

Second, since I've seen other posts about this topic, it CAN be done and has been. Removed the arm, took it to a friend with a press who removed the old ball joint and inserted the new one in about 10 minutes. Just came back in from a test drive and all is well.