Best Method/Remove Outer Knuckles Dana 44

[az88k5]

I have read a lot of old posts on this subject and still haven't got them off. I read that you should remove the top ball joint nut. Then loosen the bottom ball joint nut and keep it on flush with top of the threads. This will keep the knuckle from falling on your toes. I have also heard it the other way around loosen top and remove bottom. I don't think this really matters. Just so it keeps it from completely falling off.

Now this is my main concern. Witch method is better. I have heard three different methods that eventually work I guess. Non have work for me yet. I want to know the proper and best method.

• Use pickle fork to separate the knuckle from axle yoke. I tried separating from the top ball joint. Should I try the bottom too or does it matter.

• Use BFH to whack top of knuckle. I tried this on the passenger side knuckle. Driver side has the three studs.

• Use BFH to hit the top of the ball joint with old nut threaded on flush to the top of ball joint. Helps if you do not want to damage and reuse the ball joint. In my case i will be replacing them.

What is your best Method.

 

[Hossbaby50]

I used a pickle fork and a 3lb sledge. Worked fine for me. You can get the works for $10-15 at the local parts stores.

Harley

 

[az88k5]

I used a pickle fork and a 3lb sledge. Worked fine for me. You can get the works for $10-15 at the local parts stores.

Harley

I have all the Tools to do the job. Just need advise. I thought that would be the best method.

Imagine the axle under my truck in witch direction did you inset the pickle fork, from the rear, side, or the front. And did you only need to seperate from the top ball joint.

Chris

 

[ssls6]

I have all the Tools to do the job. Just need advise. I thought that would be the best method.

Imagine the axle under my truck in witch direction did you inset the pickle fork, from the rear, side, or the front. And did you only need to seperate from the top ball joint.

Chris

I did mine from the bottom-front. I pickled the hell out of it and it came off. Top nut removed, soaked in PB blaster, bottom nut flush as you stated.

 

[MTBLAZER89]

Well if you are replacing the balljoints..just take off both nuts and whack the upper balljoint with a 3-5 lb sledge. Only take a couple times and it should fall out.

 

[Afireinside]

Well if you are replacing the balljoints..just take off both nuts and whack the upper balljoint with a 3-5 lb sledge. Only take a couple times and it should fall out.

X2