Ford Repair: Ranger ball joint replacement, lower ball joints, ford ranger 4x2

Question
Jeff,
I have a 1999 Ford Ranger 4x2.  Are the upper and lower ball joints replaceable or do I have to replace control arm assemblies?  What type of coil spring compressor do I need(i.e. internal or external)?  What additional special tooling is needed?  Finally, what are the proper general procedures to accomplish this task? Thanks much for your time.  

Answer
Hi Mike,
Sorry to say , but it takes special tools and equipment to replace the ball joints. Nothing that can be done at home. The upper control arm must be changed and the lower ball joint can be removed from the lower control arm. First off, I find it hard to believe you need all 4 ball joints on a 99, unless you have over 100K on the truck. Take it to a good mechanic and find out what you really need and get an estimate. Then try another place just to make sure. Most places do free estimates. GOOD LUCK

Jeff
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