oldsmobilty

I'm installing a lower ball joint. I pressed it in, it it goes as usual. It then pops and gets loose, now it will not stay in place. The other side no problem but it seems loose. I triple checked the part number.. I don't notice a crack or anything unusual in the control arm. What could be the problem? How can I fix it

oldcutlass

What brand ball joint did you install?

oldsmobilty

Moog

Sugar Bear

The ball joint you removed may have been an oversized one or maybe it needs an oversized one now if the hole is worn. Look at classic industries.

Good luck!!!

oldsmobilty

Ok, thanks. It appeared to be the original ball joint

oldcutlass

What is the part number, is it a Moog problem solver ball joint? If it is a problem solver, you can tack weld it in place or replace the whole control arm. The spindle prevents the ball joint from coming out of the arm. It is a common problem for an old car.

oldsmobilty

K5075, my first thought was to tack weld it. I will go that route

oldcutlass

That is a problem solver ball joint, I would just tack weld it.

joe_padavano

^^^THIS!

I've done this in a few cases. The lower ball joint is in tension once the spring is in place, so it isn't going to fall out. A couple of tack welds between the ball joint housing and the LCA makes sure there will never be an issue.

Run to Rund

Originally, Moog etc. sold standard size ball joints, then quietly went to .010" oversize, and then later to .020" oversize, all with the same part number.