How to Replace Ball Joint 97-10 Mercury Mountaineer
Difficulty: Advanced · About 180 min · Mercury Mountaineer
Replace a pressed lower ball joint on a 1997–2010 Mercury Mountaineer, supporting the suspension while separating the spindle, using a suitable ball-joint press, and reinstalling the axle and steering hardware to specification.
Tools you will need
- 24mm Socket
- Torque Wrench
- Hammer
- 15mm Socket
- Ball Joint Press
- 18mm Socket
- 19mm Socket
- 21mm Socket
- 30mm Socket
- Slip-Joint Pliers
- Ratchet
- Floor Jack
- Needle nose pliers
Parts and supplies
- Lower ball joint
- Ball joint retaining ring and cotter pins
- Axle nut
Steps
Raise the vehicle and loosen fasteners
Loosen the wheel nuts and axle nut on the ground, then lift and support the front securely. Remove the wheel and keep the axle and joint hardware organized.
Free the steering knuckle
Remove the cotter pin and lower joint nut, then loosen the upper joint nut and axle nut enough for separation. Support the lower control arm and knuckle before disconnecting the sway bar link and tie rod.
Remove the spindle and old joint
Separate the upper joint and axle from the spindle without damaging the boots or threads. Remove the lower joint snap ring and use a matched ball-joint press to push the old joint out squarely.
Press in the new ball joint
Clean the spindle bore and orient the replacement joint correctly. Use the proper receiving cups to press the joint fully into place, then install the snap ring and grease fitting while protecting the new boot.
Reconnect the spindle and steering
Fit the axle and lower joint into the spindle, reconnect the upper joint and tie rod, and install their locking hardware. Tighten each fastener to the vehicle specification and align cotter pin holes without loosening a castle nut.
Reinstall the sway bar and brakes
Reassemble the sway bar link with its bushings and washers in the original order. Refit the rotor, caliper, and bracket, tightening brake fasteners to specification and keeping lubricant off the friction surfaces.
Install the wheel and axle nut
Reinstall the wheel and torque the wheel and axle fasteners to the manufacturer's values. Refit the center cap and verify the cotter pins and ball joint boot are secure.
Verify alignment and braking
Pump the brake pedal until firm, inspect hose and ABS wire routing, and grease the joint only if it has a serviceable fitting. Have the alignment checked and test the vehicle cautiously.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.