Basic procedure to change balljoint boots

[IridiumRed]

Ok, on my 2003 Mk25, several of the balljoint boots are torn. I -think- the balljoints themselves are ok, they just need boots replaced.

Can someone give me an idea of the basic procedure to change them? And what tools used to pop the balljoints loose? (In terms of disconnecting balljoint connection between spindle and control arm). Ive changed balljoints on many vehicles, but most of my experience with balljoints is on cars/pickups, i mainly work on commercial trucks now (class 6, 7) mid 20s to 40k GVWR, which have kingpin front axles w no balljoints.

Also, how are the balljoints removed from spindle if its needed to replace them? I notice there is a male square drive plug (like what is often used for drain plugs) on the other side of the spindle, is this for greasing the balljoint? Does it play a part in removing them?

I havent touched the balljoints on my truck yet, i just know they need something done, and am trying to plan out the job when i do it. I have some NOS oshkosh balljoint boots to put on

I can see several different potential complications w doing this whole job, so would appreciate some advice to point me in right direction... i try not to re-invent the wheel when i dont have to.

Thanks!!

 

[aw113sgte]

Ok, on my 2003 Mk25, several of the balljoint boots are torn. I -think- the balljoints themselves are ok, they just need boots replaced.

Can someone give me an idea of the basic procedure to change them? And what tools used to pop the balljoints loose? (In terms of disconnecting balljoint connection between spindle and control arm). Ive changed balljoints on many vehicles, but most of my experience with balljoints is on cars/pickups, i mainly work on commercial trucks now (class 6, 7) mid 20s to 40k GVWR, which have kingpin front axles w no balljoints.

Also, how are the balljoints removed from spindle if its needed to replace them? I notice there is a male square drive plug (like what is often used for drain plugs) on the other side of the spindle, is this for greasing the balljoint? Does it play a part in removing them?

I havent touched the balljoints on my truck yet, i just know they need something done, and am trying to plan out the job when i do it. I have some NOS oshkosh balljoint boots to put on

I can see several different potential complications w doing this whole job, so would appreciate some advice to point me in right direction... i try not to re-invent the wheel when i dont have to.

Thanks!!

I didn't find much info on this, however if you look at "OSHKOSH MTVR 7 TON 3919960 FRONT BALL JOINT PARTS KIT 2530-01-611-2747" you can get some hints.
For the balljoint, there are shims and snap rings. So it's possible they are either slip or press fit into the arms, likely with the NPT plug being there to help with removal. That said, you could also add grease to them through that port.

You can also see it includes 4 identical seals indicating they are same top and bottom.

 

[aw113sgte]

Follow up on this. For removal - remove the plug, remove the snapring, use a brass punch to drive out the joint (shouldn't be super tight). For installation, tap the new balljoint in with brass hammer or similar. Grease is to be added to the boot side and the plug side. Shims are what prevents the joint from excessive movement so it needs to have almost no slop. Torque to 600ft-lb.

 

[IridiumRed]

Awesome, thanks for info