Mid Year Ball Joints

[Peter M.]

Are current available reproduction ball joints for Mid Years exact to original NOS units and when riveted in place and installed - do they pass NCRS standards ? If not - what is the actual difference

[Joe L.]

Re: Mid Year Ball Joints

Peter-----

Every aftermarket and "reproduction ball" joint that I have ever seen (and, I've seen a lot of them) are configured significantly different than the originals. On the originals, the seal (boot) was affixed to the joint with a steel band that surrounded the top of the ball stud socket. Also, originals have an "unthreaded extension" beyond the threads of the ball stud. "Reproductions" lack both of these features. Beyond that, the shape of the ball socket (forged part that the ball stud fits into) is different for originals and aftermarket, the aftermarket seal (boot) is totally different in configuration than originals and the configuration of the stamped steel portion of the upper ball joint assembly is totally different on aftermarket. So, there are really VERY few similarities between aftermarket or "reproduction" ball joints and originals.

Notwithstanding the above, the aftermarket or "reproduction" ball joints will function just perfectly----as well or better than originals. Usually, the aftermarket are, actually, a more "heavy duty" piece than the originals.

I can't advise as to judging considerations.

[Peter M.]

Thanks Joe *NM*