How to Replace Upper Ball Joint 95-02 Ford Crown Victoria
Difficulty: Advanced · About 60 min · Ford Crown Victoria
Replace an upper ball joint on a 1995–2002 Ford Crown Victoria, marking the alignment cams before removal and greasing the new joint after installation.
Tools you will need
- 20mm Socket
- Adjustable Wrench
- Socket Extensions
- Torque Wrench
- Jack Stands
- 18mm Socket
- 19mm Socket
- Grease Gun
- 21mm Socket
- Flat Blade Screwdriver
- Phillips Head Screwdriver
- Lug Wrench
- Ratchet
- Floor Jack
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
- Marker / Writing Utensil
- 22mm Socket
Parts and supplies
- Upper ball joint
- Grease fitting
Steps
Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
Loosen lug nuts, raise and support the vehicle securely, then remove the wheel. Support the suspension before separating the upper joint.
Mark and remove the alignment cams
Mark the inner and outer cam positions on the control arm. Remove the cam fasteners and set the plates aside in their original orientation.
Separate the upper ball joint
Remove the pinch bolt and nut connecting the joint to the steering knuckle. Release the joint from the knuckle without damaging its boot or nearby brake hose.
Install the replacement joint
Fit the new ball joint over the control-arm studs and into the knuckle. Install the locking nut and pinch fastener, then replace the alignment cams on their marks.
Tighten and lubricate the joint
Tighten the joint and cam fasteners to the vehicle's specification. Install the grease fitting and lubricate the joint until the boot is just slightly expanded.
Reinstall the wheel and align
Refit the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque lug nuts to specification. Have the alignment checked and verify there is no play or binding at the joint.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.