"Good Repacement" Ball Joints

[John M.]

Does the rubber boot go on the joint before its installed in the A frame? The boot has a nice formed groove that looks like it should be trapped in the A frame but it looks like there is not enough space when the bolts are tightened.
Thanks for any advice. These are from LIC

[Joe L.]

Re: "Good Repacement" Ball Joints

John-----

I don't understand the connection between the ball joint boot and the a-frame. The ball joint boot used on all aftermarket-type ball joints installs on the ball joint over the ball stud. The ball stud then inserts into the tapered holes in the steering knuckle and the boot is compressed between the ball joint and the steering knuckle.

[John M.]

Re: "Good Repacement" Ball Joints

Joe, If the boot is put over the ball stud before putting the stud through the control arm the boot would be nicely trapped in the taper in the large hole through the control arm. I'm just not sure if this was the manufacturers intention and there's not quite enough room. I think I'll call LIC on Monday for guidance. Thanks for your help.

[Joe L.]

Re: "Good Repacement" Ball Joints

John-----

For this to be possible, the seal would have to cover the entire body of the ball joint. I've never seen one of these seals which was "tall" enough to cover the entire body of the joint. Every seal for aftermarket-type ball joints that I've seen is designed to fit tightly over the upper body of the joint and be retained by the compression between the steering knuckle and the ball joint body when the joint is installed in the car.

[Stephen G.]

Re: "Good Repacement" Ball Joints

John;

I know what you mean as I just when through the same thing doing mine. Install the ball joint (bolts or rivets) and slide on the boot. The groove makes you think that it should be trapped in the hole of the A arm. Its not.

Steve