Hi from Atlanta, Ga.  I am in the middle of replacing the ball joints and
tie rod ends on one of our two '81's.  I gave up trying to extricate the
lower ones---my local flaps did not have the proper fittings for their press
to do it, so I took it to a local shop to do for me....I have the feeling it
will cost about $100.00 to do it---Remove and replace with my new ones---I
will let you know what happens.  Atlanta does not have many machine shops to
do this kind of work anymore---it realistically should cost about $25.00
each side, but who to get to do it???
Regards,

Michael and Christina Nichols
2--'81's
----- Original Message -----
From: "John Carpenter" <Trvlr2001@AOL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, June 13, 2002 6:31 PM
Subject: Re: BALL JOINTS...

> I have a small hydraulic press from Harbor Freight tools. I'm thinking I
can
> use this to remove and install ball joints with it.
> Is there any trick or special tool needed to be able to install the new
ball
> joint without damaging it? Or is this best left to a machine shop?
> Also, any easy way to take the upper ball joint out of the spindle? I can
> remove the nut, but it does not want to budge.
> Todd
> '88 Westy
> Todd,
> Make sure you press on the base flange of the ball joint, when you install
> them.  I was worried that I could damage them, by pressing on the end of
the
> bolt?... Listers?
> I have some special tooling that I made to remove, and install them, and I
> could send them to you. (or anyone on the list)
> Although, and perhaps someone could tell us, do all years have the same
> spindle set up?
> let me know, and best of luck.
> John C.
> SLC, UT
> 85 Westaru...
>