Depending on car brand and model, the replacement of worn / defective ball joints can be a costly affair. The repair costs depend on, amongst other things, whether a complete replacement of the track control arm must be done or if replacing the ball joint and possibly the bushes is sufficient. Although ball joints often are available separately, it is not always sufficient to only replace the ball joint. In the following paragraphs, you will find out why this is – and what you should be aware of.
Cast vs. Sheet steel track control arm
In the case of a ball joint mounted on a cast track control arm you can often settle for only replacing the ball joint if the bushings of the track control arms do not show signs of wear and tear. If, however, the bushings of the track control arms do show signs of wear and tear, you should consider replacing the track control arm as a whole.
In the case of a sheet steel track control arm where the ball joint is pressed into the track control arm, it is not always sufficient to replace the ball joint - even if the bushes are in order. Since the contact surface between the ball joint and the track control arm is quite limited for this type of arm, there are two details that must ALWAYS be considered when replacing a ball joint. Firstly, make sure that there are no indications of cracks around the track control arms / holes where the ball joint is located. Secondly, ensure that the holes are circular and have not gotten expanded due to general wear and tear or previous replacements. Even though this type of ball joint is often secured with a locking ring, this does NOT guarantee that the ball joint stays in place in all situations.
Depending on the make and model, Triscan offers both complete track control arms and separate ball joints and bushings – for both cast and steel sheet track control arms
The replacement of a ball joint which is pressed into the track control arm, in most cases requires a removal of the track control arm. You should therefore consider replacing the complete track control arm.
DID YOU KNOW…?
- Depending on the make and model, Triscan offers both complete track control arms and separate ball joints and bushings – for both cast and steel sheet track control arms.
- With more than 6.600 references, Triscan’s steering program is Europe´s largest.
CAUTION DURING INSTALLATION / REMOVAL:
- As a rule, never use air tools!
- Never use a hammer during assembly / disassembly of parts, but a hydraulic press or a suitable puller.
- Never reuse nuts and bolts - mount only new ones.
- Check the car's tracking after replacing ball joints, bushes or complete track control arms.