Ball Joints 500SEL

[Anonymous]

What is the best and easiest way to replace the worn lower ball jouints on my 1987 500 SEL. The car has failed MOT on wear on these items, and I have bought replacements. Do I need any special tools etc ?

 

[Andy]

Hi Wilson.

You will find it extremely difficult to fit the lower ball joints succesfully with out the ball joint tool. You will see what I mean when you try. Removing is not the problem but fitting. If you try any other way besides the tool. The joint does not look secure enough.

Good luck

Andy @ www.mercedesservicing.com

PS. The tools a lot of money. Pop into your local dealer with the stub axle and ask them to fit them. Or come and see us.

Regards
Andy @www.mercedesservicing.com

 

[wilson]

Ball Joints again. Sorry I should have mentioned that these are for the front. I have loosened the bolt on top of the bearing, and I can probably get this down and out of the axle /brake mounting assembly, however is it easy to the remove the bearing from its cup in the arm (A arm ?) and do I have to remove the arm to bring to a dealer for pressing in etc ?

 

[David Halsey]

Wilson,
Forgive me for saying but it seems that you are not too sure of any of the procedure. Have you compressed the spring?
Maybe it would be best to take the vehicle to a reputable mechanic. It may cost a bit but will save you untold hassle

 

[Andy]

Hi

My previous posting was for front ball joints. But I do agree with David. If you do not have a spring compressor handy or you not confident in stripping down the suspension, then this will be a dangerous job.
Get it into a good garage. Preferably mine!!!

Regards
Andy @ www.mercedesservicing.com