Ball joint separation

[boostedLC2]

What is the best way to separate the upper/lower ball joints and tie rod ends from the spindle? I'd like to avoid destroying them (i.e pickle fork) in the process.

Any tips would be appreciated.

Jim

 

[BJM]

With the nuts backed off but still fully engaged and with the suspension at full droop (shock removed). Try hitting the spindle where the tapered piece goes through it. Sometimes the spring load is enough to pop it. The factory method is a 2 arm puller pushing the tapered stud out. With a moderate load on the puller, whack the side of the spindle and it will pop.

I very carefully used my pickle fork on one and did no damage at all.