Dana 30 Ball Joint Tool And Ball Joints

Need to replace at least one ball joint on my Dana 30 front axle. Not something I want to do, but saving the 500+ dollar labor charge could pay for my fuel to ID or?

So; who had had good experience doing this and what was your preferred tool? So far I've read good stuff about the OTC 7249 but if there's a less expensive version I'd like to check it out.

Also, I see ball joints ranging in price from 50 bucks for all 4 to 100 bucks each. My first inclination is to go Spicer but heard they were "imported". And are the grease-able ones mo betta?



Thanks

 

Ive had good luck with moog tres and balljoints. Just make sure you dont accidentally get the oversized moog ball joints unless thats what you need. I used the otc tool that autozone rents but eventually bought my own since i work on the jeep at strange hours sometimes. Amazon had a ball joint press kit for $45ish and it works as good as the otc press.

 

Greaseable is good, IF you can get to the fitting.. That's the problem with some, the fitting is in such a position you can't get on it..

 

I'm assuming this is on the CJ era Dana 30's where the ball joint is in the outer "C" not the inner on the axle tube. You don't need to purchase a ball joint tool if you have access to a bearing press. I have done them with a 5lb hammer and a pipe also but it's a little crude. But you use what you have when you are young without tools.

 

I bought the Harbor Freight tool 3 years ago. My son borrowed it to do his Jeep last year. Those are the only 2 times its been used. If you can loan/rent at FLAPS your way ahead.

 

Maybe I'll just drive over to your place
You've got the same trans and axles as me And you have the tool