Installing New OEM Upper BJ

[tundra61]

Sorry to ask a question that has probably been asked in another thread, but I am planning on replacing my upper ball joints with new OEM BJs and I need help.

I know how to get them out, but I am not sure of the best way to get new ones back in. Is it as simple as using a c-clamp or is there a better way? Also, how hard is it to do this without removing the knuckle?

I read the service manual but they call for a specific tool (Transmission Bearing Replacer http://toyota.spx.com/detail.aspx?id=679) that I looks like a socket? However, I don't see how something that looks like this could be used to press a new ball in !!

Any help would be appreciated. I know many of you have done this job before.

[theyotaguy]

The way the tools work to remove the ball joint is the opposite of the way you would typically use a puller.Usually the outer jaws grab the gear,bearing,etc. while the screw in the center pushes against a stationary shaft and pulls the object off.When removing a ball joint,the Toyota tool is designed so that the outer jaws hook around the spindle and the center screw pushes the ball joint out.Think of it as apusher rather than a puller.The center of a ball joint is not stationary,so the tool you linked to is designed to sit over the ball joint stud and allow the screw to push the outer surfaces of the BJ.A conventional c-clamp type ball joint tool will accomplish the same thing.Either way you go,you may not have room to set it up with the spindle still on the vehicle,but I would give it a try and be prepared to remove the spindle if necessary.