Date:         Mon, 26 Jun 2023 17:55:47 -0500
Reply-To:     Jim Felder <jim.felder@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jim Felder <jim.felder@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Lower ball joint boot question
Comments: To: Dan N <dn92610@gmail.com>
In-Reply-To:  <CAFdLW6=LPtcTY-Y6xWG7y-p=7tieC2_NYx9dqoEEmHKZxgNRyg@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"

Eric,

There is no way to just replace the rubber boot if that's what you are
wondering. Remove the lower joint--might as well do that upper too, as I
recall the upper arm doesn't have to come off to replace it, just loosen
the three allen bolts at the top--and take it to a shop with a press.
Remind them that there is a nearly-invisible wire snap ring around the
whole joint circumference. If you don't remove that part with a pick, you
would blow up your press and/or bend your lower arm trying to get it out.

I went to a local tire shop and paid a mechanic there cash to do the press
work on his lunch break.

Jim


On Mon, Jun 26, 2023 at 4:52 PM Dan N <dn92610@gmail.com> wrote:

> hi Eric,
>
> I think that you need a press for the lower ball joint if you replace
> the whole thing.
>
> https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=566316&view=next
>
> On Mon, Jun 26, 2023 at 2:07 PM Eric Caron <ericcaron96@comcast.net>
> wrote:
>
> > Question on lower  ball joint boot.
> >
> >         My 84  has a ripped lower ball joint boot.  I’m wondering if I
> can
> > replace it and try to save and just clean and re grease the lower ball
> > joint.
> >
> > Or, do I have to replace the ball joint?
> >
> > My thinking is I might be able to do the boot myself, but likely not the
> > lower joint.  And, I’d like to keep the German ball joint rather than a
> > replacement.
> >
> > Thoughts on the idea of fixing the boot?
> >
> > And description of the job would be greatly appreciated.
> >  For new listers, I’m blind so video’s or pictures don’t help.  I need a
> > verbal description.
> >
> > Also, source for quality boots appreciated.
> >
> > I’m thinking I would replace both sides as the other is intact but I
> > suspect ready to fail.
> >
> > Eric Caron
> > 84 Vanagon.
> >
> >
> >
>