Removal Procedure

NOTE: Use only the recommended tools for separating the ball joint from the knuckle. Failure to use the recommended tools may cause damage to the ball joint and seal.

Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to JACKING AND LIFTING in General Information.
Remove the wheel and the tire. Refer to Install the tires and wheels. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in Tires and Wheels.
Disconnect the stabilizer link to control arm bolt.

Fig 1: Disconnecting Stabilizer Link To Control Arm Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the cotter pin (1). Loosen the nut (2) from the ball stud.

Fig 2: Removing Cotter Pin & Loosening Nut From Ball Stud
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Care must be exercised to prevent Tri-Pod joints from being over-extended. When either end of the shaft is disconnected, over-extension of the joint could result in separation of internal components and possible joint failure. Drive axle joint seal protectors should be used any time service is performed on or near the drive axles. Failure to observe this can result in interior joint or seal damage and possible joint failures.
Use the J 43828 in order to remove the ball joint from the steering knuckle.

Fig 3: Removing Ball Joint From Steering Knuckle
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the control arm mounting bolts.
Remove the control arm from the frame.

Fig 4: Removing Control Arm
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.