I am installing some springs and struts on my 02 GT, and was wondering if it is ok to let the spindle hang from the lower ball joint during spring installation? Could this cause damage to the ball joint? Is there a way of supporting the spindle during install?
You could do the spring first; remove the control arm from the knuckel (by the ball joint) and let the strut hold the knuckel up. Pop the spring out, install new spring, secure the ball joint and then replace the strut.
I've replaced my front springs several times (long story) and let the spindle flop around on the ball joint every time, never had a problem. One thing to watch out for is the ABS wheel sensor wire will stretch if you don't unbolt the sensor, you need an E8 torx bit.
I've since replaced the ball joints with Steeda X2's so i can't say for sure what the long term effects would've been
Thanks for the replies. I've reviewed several different spring install instructions and they all clearly show the spindle hanging loose during the spring install. I wonder if I could just zip tie the spindle to something to keep it from flopping. Anyone done this? Separating the ball joint from the spindle seems a bit scary to me. Seems like I could do just as much damage to it if I don't do it right.
Thanks for the replies. I've reviewed several different spring install instructions and they all clearly show the spindle hanging loose during the spring install. I wonder if I could just zip tie the spindle to something to keep it from flopping. Anyone done this? Separating the ball joint from the spindle seems a bit scary to me. Seems like I could do just as much damage to it if I don't do it right.
Well, cant say I've actually looked under my mustang in a while, but if memory serves me correct, the ball joint is pressed into the lower control arm, and secured into the bottom of the knuckle. Loosen the bolt that secures it, spray a little lube and tap on the control arm with a rubber mallet and it should pop right out. Again, been a while since I was under my mustang, so it may be slightly different, but I know its pressed into the control arm.
I HAVE seen first hand that letting a load hang on the ball joint for an extended time has forced greese/lube out of the ball joint. If you're ok with that, then let it hang. I was doing an Evo clutch and let the control arms hang at the ball joints, after a few hours the lube was coming out. A full knuckle assembly with wheel bearing/caliper/rotor is FAR heavier than that control arm was.