Ball joint tool

[PaulinPa]

Any recommendations for brand/model of efficient ball joint seperator?

 

[HB Chris]

I used two tools to do my 2002 suspension. Each had it advantages, wouldn't hurt to have both as one didn't do both tie rod end and center track rod/idler arm due to interference or limited room. I don't like the pickle fork tool, seems to do damage but some love it.

 

[echappe]

where did you buy these tools from and how much?
Thanks

 

[bmw art car]

Harbor freight

 

[HB Chris]

Search online or Harbor Freight as mentioned.

 

[sfdon]

OTC makes a wide range of tools for good prices.
I modify their tie rod tool with a bench grinder and it fits everywhere on old BMW's


http://www.amazon.com/OTC-7315A-Uni...?s=automotive&ie=UTF8&qid=1295633650&sr=1-126

 

[PaulinPa]

Thanks for the suggestions.How much and what area needs to be ground off Bert?Stopped at Sears and AutoZone and both only carried pickle forks!Odd as they had other "puller" type tools.Harbor freight does carry the lever type tool,$20.Now where did I put that 20% off coupon?

 

[sfdon]

The problems with pickle forks are many.. worthless on idler arms, damages joints that you need to reuse. Every shop around me uses an OTC or OTC type with the opening ground out.
Mine is 10 years old.

 

[Mike Goble]

where did you buy these tools from and how much?
Thanks

You can rent these tools from auto parts stores like Auto Zone. You pay the full price for them, and they give you a couple of days to return them for a full refund.