Ball Joints and Ties Rods

[Oversize]

So.... what's the quickest and most effective way to get these things separated from their corresponding knuckles? I've already tried a pickle fork but bent one like a banana. I had success with a propane torch and a grinder, but it was hardly quick or professional....

 

[CraigS]

A big hammer. Hit the housing, not the tie rod.

 

[Helmet]

A big hammer. Hit the housing, not the tie rod.

This
Plus never use heat on steering / suspension components

 

[Styria]

There are, of course, special tools and pullers particular to Mercedes Benz. I know of one repair company that has the use of those special tools. In days gone by, I have had some made up to fit Rover components, but I have successfully managed (only just) to use them on some Benz steering components.

The hammer blow method ? Can be very much hit and miss - generally the latter has the upper hand. It's a crass way of doing things, especially in areas that are quite inaccessible. Regards. Styria

 

[Oversize]

I've got a new tool on its way and I'm sending back the old ones on warranty. Believe me I tried just belting it with a hammer and it just laughed and said gimmie more! I tried heat when I was getting desperate but even that wasn't really successful. In the end I cut out the whole spindle/stub axle with an angle grinder pending arrival of the new tool

 

[Styria]

Mark, which part/joint are you talking about ? Sometimes, if you disconnect the 'other end', you might be able to deal with the stubborn one away from the car - it is surprising just how much more readily you can split those ball joints when they are on the bench. Regards Styria