1967 VW Beetle - Ball Joint Replacement:

Video Overview:

Guide to Replacing VW Ball Joints on Your Volkswagen

Introduction:

Classic VW owners often find themselves in need of repairs and maintenance. One common issue that can crop up is a failing ball joint, and in this article, we're going to guide you through the process of replacing your VW ball joints. While pressing out and installing new ball joints can be a bit daunting, we'll break it down into manageable steps to help you get the job done.

Tools Needed:

Sledge Hammer
Chisel
Long Punch
Adjustable Pliers
Locking Pliers
Side Cutters
8mm Allen Wrench
Flat Head Screwdriver
3/8" Drive Ratchet
3/8" Drive 11mm Socket
17mm Wrench
19mm Wrench
1/2" Drive Ratchet
1/2" Drive 3" Extension
1/2" Drive 17mm Socket
1/2" Drive 19mm Socket
Hydraulic Press
Ball Joint Installation & Removal Sleeves & Adapters

Step 1: Preparation

Before you start, make sure you have the necessary tools and equipment. Secure your vehicle with rear wheels chocked and the front end supported on jack stands. Remove the front wheel nuts to get ready for the job.

Step 2: Removing the Old Ball Joints

• Begin by loosening and removing the nuts for both ball joints.


• Use a sledgehammer to carefully tap the spindle, freeing the upper ball joint from it. Remember to keep the large washers.


• Lift the spindle and brake drum out of the way.

Step 3: Handling the Trailing Arm

• Remove the sway bar clamps on the lower trailing arm by prying the tab at the end of the clamp down and tapping the plate off.


• Unthread the shock nut from the trailing arm and remove the shock. Pay attention to the steel bushing on the trailing arm, which can sometimes be rusted in place. Ensure it comes off if you're installing new shocks.

Step 4: Removing the Grub Screws

• Remove the grub screws from the trailing arms, being careful to clean out any gunk.


• Unthread the grub screws from the trailing arms, slide the arms out, and tap the trailing arm seals out of the beam.

Step 5: Removing the Lower Ball Joint

• To separate the lower ball joint from the spindle, you may need to employ a few well-placed taps with a hammer or a ball joint separator tool. This action will break the connection and allow the ball joint to move freely.

Step 6: Pressing Out the Old Ball Joints

• Before pressing out the old ball joints, take note of the alignment marks on them. These marks indicate the correct orientation for the new ball joints.


• Using a press, start with the lower trailing arm. Place it on a sleeve so the remaining part of the old ball joint can be pressed down into it.


• As the old joint may be damaged, you may only be able to press out the cup at the bottom. Remove the trailing arm and use side cutters to remove the rubber boot.


• Extract the snap ring using a flat-head screwdriver, revealing the remaining material to be pushed out.


• Place the trailing arm back on the sleeve in the press and use a socket as an adapter to press the remnants of the ball joint until it pops out of the trailing arm.

Step 7: Installing the New Ball Joints

• Examine the new ball joints and their alignment marks. Ensure they are oriented correctly.


• The lower ball joint should be pressed in from the bottom of the arm with the shaft facing up. Slide and twist the new lower ball joint into place on the trailing arm, being careful not to damage the boot.


• Align the ball joint correctly and set the trailing arm back into the press sleeve. Use a socket as an adapter to press the ball joint fully into place until it seats against the trailing arm.


• For the upper trailing arm and ball joint, remove the camber adjuster from the old ball joint. Save the camber adjuster, as it will be reused.


• Place the upper trailing arm against the lower brace of the press with the camber adjuster resting on the brace. Tap the ball joint shaft until the camber adjuster breaks loose.


• The upper ball joint should be pressed in from the bottom of the arm with the shaft facing down. Use a spacer sleeve to fit around the ball joint boot and press against the outer edge of the ball joint.


• Place the trailing arm with the new upper ball joint into the press, ensuring the alignment slots are oriented fore-and-aft. Press the ball joint down into the trailing arm until the outer ring seats against it.

Step 8: Reassembly

• Install new trailing arm seals into the beam.


• Lubricate and slide the lower and upper trailing arms into place, ensuring they are fully seated.


• Thread in the grub screws, tighten them down, and secure them with lock nuts.


• Reassemble the sway bar using either the original clamps and bushings or the new urethane bushings and t-bolt clamps, depending on your preference.


• Set the spindle in place onto the lower ball joint, ensuring you use the original washers.


• Thread the nuts onto the lower and upper ball joints and tighten them down.


• Adjust the upper camber adjuster to the center and rearmost position. Fine-tune the alignment later at an alignment shop.

Step 9: Final Touches

• Install the shock and tighten the nut.


• Reattach the right-side wheel.


• Repeat the entire process on the opposite side.


• Consider taking your Volkswagen to an alignment shop to ensure proper alignment after the ball joint replacement.

Conclusion

Replacing your VW ball joints may seem like a challenging task, but with the right tools and step-by-step instructions, it's a job you can tackle yourself. By following this guide, you can ensure your Volkswagen's suspension is in top-notch condition, allowing you to enjoy the open road with confidence. For all your Volkswagen parts and DIY needs, visit JBugs.com, your trusted source for quality components and expert advice. Safe travels!