Help. New pressed ball joint frozen stiff

[John04TB]

I need to know if I ruined new upper ball joints or if it's normal that they're so stiff that even hitting them with a rubber mallet won't move them.

I couldn't find anything in the press kit to fit the metal rim at the bottom of the joint so I let the end of the C-clamp press against the bottom of the (sealed) joint. I'm also wondering if the sleeve and cap I used over the stud were too short and maybe the stud ran up against them? I used an impact wrench and they seemed to go in fine. But they can't move at all so I can't line the stud up to get in the upper control arm. How else can I get them in the UCA?

Did I ruin the ball joints or is it normal to be so stiff? I didn't try to move them before pressing them in so I have no comparison. But from what I've seen on videos they should move some.

Thanks.

 

[flyboy2610]

They should be stiff, but not that stiff. If you did what I think you did, it may be FUBAR'ed. (Fouled (being nice here) Up Beyond All Repair)
Is the press kit a loaner from a parts store? If so that would explain the less than optimal fitting selection. You might try finding an impact socket of the proper diameter to fit the ball joint lip, while you're out buying a new ball joint.

 

[John04TB]

Thanks. Turns out they were moveable. I was able to partially put the stud in the UCA and hit the spindle with a rubber mallet to move and align the stud. Whew!

 

[flyboy2610]

Glad you got them in! I'd keep an eye on them, though!