Ball joint installation

[gedmeyer]

I'm trying to install my new ball joints (TRW's) in my upper control arm and I ran into a question. The ball joint came with 3 major components. The ball joint itself, the rubber boot, and then another metal "housing" per say that goes onto the bottom of the ball joint (this kinda goes around the ball joint "ball" and the stud passes through.) My question is, is this an adaptor to allow this same ball joint to be used it other vehicles? I ask b/c this housing, or sleeve, does not fit through the ball joint hole in my control arm. It also seems that the boot would not fit over this part if I were to use it. The diagram on the included instructions did not even show this piece in it.


I hope someone understands the question!!!


thanks
-tim

 

[cntrhub]

Have you double checked the part number's application to the car? I changed my ball joints on my '80 Vette, but I used OEM packaged parts. I'm sure they are from one of the big component companies (TRW, Moog, etc.) packaged in a Delco box. I would call another parts house, ask for TRW brand parts, and see if that same part number they give you matches the part you now have?
I didn't have a "sleeve" with the ball joint, nor did I need to intall a rubber bootie. It was in place.

 

[JohnZ]

Sounds like they gave you the wrong parts (or some off-brand); there should be no "loose pieces" - just the ball joints and the bolts. Stick with Moog or TRW brand suspension parts.