mySAVIOReigns

Well, it looks like this nice weather is here to stay, so I figure I'll do my front brakes and get the rear end on as well. Last few questions before I jump in. I took a look at my brakes up front, and the spindles and all that. the ball joints, and I guess the spindle too, is covered in black thick tar stuff. No idea why, just thought I'd let ya'll know

When I go to pull off the old spindle, I need to remove the ball joints to get the spindle off. First, how should I do this? I bought a gigantic C-vise a year ago, and it says "for use when removing ball joints" on the box. Sweet, I may be in luck if I can figure out how to use it. Second, do I need to buy new ball joints? I'm not real sure what the life is on these, or what. 2nd question is, I figure while I am under there, I will do the Shelby drop, and replace the coil springs (if it's cheap enough). I know a lot of people go with the 620 coils, but what do you recommend for me (a 6 cylinder)? It's lighter, so I hope I don't end up with a lifted car. If replacing the coils is not really going to benefit me, then I'll leave them. Other suspension/steering mods will come later

TexasAxMan

I've heard the best method is to beat on the spindle with the nut for the ball joint loose but not completely off. This has worked for me several times. You might give that tool a try, but I'd use the hammer method first.

I think I would replace the ball joints if you're going to be in there anyway. The 620s will be way too stiff for you, IMO. If the ride is good as is, I'd leave them.

zmetalmilitia

Not sure about the coils springs, but if the ball joints are original or unknown, then I would replace them. They wear out and if they are as old as I think they are, they should be replaced with new ones. The shelby drop will help with the handling and will lower the front approx. 1 inch. There are templates available for free. I think mustangdepot has a link to a free template.

rmodel65

dont worry with that tool use this the quickest and most efficent way to get them loose http://mustangsplus.com/tech/shockan...shockfall1.htm

deadcarnahans

Use a pickle fork to separate the ball joints from the spindle.
The lower ball joint is integral with the lower control arm.
The upper is attached to the upper control arm with rivets or bolts. Drill or grind off the rivets. The new ball joint attaches with bolts.

rmodel65

using the pickel fork will more than likely damage the rubber on the ball joint the shock and fall method works so much quicker ask me how i know i beat an beat on my old 72 when i rebuilt the front end i changed the method and they fell apart like butter

baddog671

^That "shock" method is a very good tip. I beat the hell out of my ball joints and they wouldnt budge, but a few smacks in that fashion and they fell right out...

620's would be way to heavy duty for you. I'd personally buy new 6er coils and cut them to lower the front. Buy an internal spring compressor, you'll need it wether you replace them or not.

I assume your doing the Granada conversion? You didnt specify...

mySAVIOReigns

Oh man, thanks rmodel...I feel the need to go buy a big hammer

So, I will just replace the top one? Because the lower ball joint is integral?

Thanks

19stang66

The Shelby drop does not lower your car 1 inch. It actually only lowers it very little. The Shelby drop does lower the location of the upper control arm bolt holes 1 inch on 65-66 models.

66JameStang

Yeah the shock method worked for me as well... and definitely replace the ball joints, if nothing else you know they will be new and will last for years to come.