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Tie Rod/Ball Joint/Control Arm/Wheel Bearing Hub Replacement

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1.1K views 5 replies 6 participants last post by  sheila  
#1 ·
Hi,

I am getting ready to replace the inner and outer tie rods, ball joints, lower control arms, stabilizer bar links, and wheel bearing hub assemblies on my '02 Sable. So I'm wondering if anyone has any tricks or tips for doing this myself. I have never done any of this work myself before but since the repair shops near me all want between $1,1100 and $2K in labor, I figured I would try and save myself some $$$ and do it myself. I have watched all kinds of videos on how to do the repairs soi I feel confident I can do the work, but any tricks or tips to make it go easier and smoother are welcome.

I have all the parts which I was able to get most of them in a kit from 1AAuto adn I am going to rent the tie rod tool and ball joint press fro O'Reilly's auto parts. I'm hoping if I start this project at 2pm on Saturday, I can have it all done by 6pm, at least one side, if not both.


Thanks again for any tricks or tips.
 
#3 ·
Only tip I can give you is that the tie rod tool is not completely necessary. For the 6th gen they actually don't even work because they are too small. Every one I tried did not have the correct size adapter. You can use a pipe wrench or big crescent wrench, which might actually be easier because you can take it off without having to separate the inner and outer form each other
 
#4 · (Edited)
You will need the Taurus Ball-joint adaptor. Most ball-joint presses don't include it. Get an Impact wrench if you don't already have one. The electric 1/2" one from Harbor freight is fantastic, if you don't have shop air. I needed a vise to hole the knuckle while pressing out the b/j. if you can get a 19mm/ 3/4 100Ft-lb torque stick from ebay, it is worth it too.

Many people put a wrench on the opposing side of the rack when removing the inner-tie rod ends.

You will need a 30mm Axle nut socket. Local auto parts should have that for under $20. Amazon has them between $9-$20.

I liked the Gear Wrench 8 and 18mm wrenches when doing the sway-bar links.

Don't forget the alignment when you are done.

https://www.harborfreight.com/12-in-heavy-duty-electric-impact-wrench-61173.html
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_sacat=0&_nkw=19mm+100+ft+lb+torque&_sop=15
http://www.taurusclub.com/forum/82-...nce-repair/136431-taurus-ball-joint-adapter-ball-joint-press-now-auto-zone.html
 
#5 ·
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