C3 ball joint removal
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2nd Gear
Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 2
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C3 ball joint removal
How do I get the upper and lower ball joints off my '75? The nuts are all loose. There are 2 bolts thru the side of the lower control arm near the lower ball joint - those are off. I don't believe they have ever been replaced because the rivets are still on the upper ball joints. I can't see where to go from here.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,438
Likes: 41
From: Raleigh NC
St. Jude Donor '13-'14
How do I get the upper and lower ball joints off my '75? The nuts are all loose. There are 2 bolts thru the side of the lower control arm near the lower ball joint - those are off. I don't believe they have ever been replaced because the rivets are still on the upper ball joints. I can't see where to go from here.
If they need to be replaced, grab your chisel and hammer.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 987
Likes: 7
From: Surrey British Columbia
In the GM 1980 Service Manual for the Corvette they recommend re-installing the ball joints with threaded bolts and nuts and the nuts are on the topside. It'll work with any year C3 if your not NCRS'ing your car.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 2,520
Likes: 11
From: Hinckley OH
Upper ball joints have the rivets. Just drill them out or chisel them off. The lower ball joints also have a nut just below the grease fitting (just in case it's covered with grease and you don't see it). If they don't come off after you have removed all the rivets and nuts and bolts they may just be rust welded. If you intend to reuse them just put a block of wood on them and smack it with a hammer and it will come off.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 3,438
Likes: 41
From: Raleigh NC
St. Jude Donor '13-'14
Safety Car
Joined: Jun 2013
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