I need to replace my lower ball joint.

The ball joint itself uses a hex bolt with cotter pin. While it is in a difficult spot to remove I still think I can manage.

The issue is that there are three pins holding the ball joint to the steering arm.

My replacement part has three bolts/screws but these three pins/riviots are in there now and I don't have a clue how to get them out.

I tried hammering in a screw driver but no luck.

Anybody have any suggestions?

They are likely hardened steel. Griding them off with an angle grinder likely is the quickest/easiest.

I did this job a few months ago and it's not too hard, I used a 3/8" drill bit and drilled out the rivets. The cotter pin in the castle nut is installed in a pretty rough place, but I used a pair of needle nose pliers and some patience and worked it out eventually.

Good Luck.

I did this job a few months ago and it's not too hard, I used a 3/8" drill bit and drilled out the rivets. The cotter pin in the castle nut is installed in a pretty rough place, but I used a pair of needle nose pliers and some patience and worked it out eventually.

Good Luck.


Thanks,

I tried drilling - but broke two bits in the process on the first hole.
Did you drill from the top down or bottom up?

If that don't work going to try my air chisel

thanks

Just as a follow up the easiest way to do this job is to just take off the steering knuckle. Then you have full access to the rivets and can easily drill them out with a 3/8" bit.

Drilling is much easier, I also tried a air chisel they cut the top's off ok, but still did not let the rivet come out, as mine were hard rusted in and still would not punch out. In the end I drilled then also. With a good bit it's easy to drill, don't mess with anything else.

With the steering knuckle out, it's an easy job.
And getting the knuckle out is not hard.