Semi Technie Q.. Lower Arm Ball Joint

[riplash]

Had a front left wheel impact with the kerb a few days ago (skidded in the wet etc), and as a result the wheel points at a strange angle compared to the other front wheel.

Investigating, I found that one of the "front lower suspension arm balljoint retaining nuts" is missing (I presume it sheared off), putting things out of alignment.

A mechanic has told me I should just be able to remove the other retaining nut, realign the "window winder" looking clip, and replace the nuts, and this should be problem solved.

What I need to know is the dimensions of the nut I need, so I can order the right thing and get my car sorted asap!

Any help is much appreciated!!

 

[Bennyboy]

Hello mate, not sure if ive understood u 100% but it sounds like you need a new lower ball joint and two new bolts and nuts. i wouldnt re-use any of them after smacking it against a kerb... if they shear when youre really moving, youre in deep sh*t.

 

[riplash]

Been reading more on the net/in the manual, Im just gonna buy new ball joint I think, theyre cheap enough and Ill get the bolts included!

Sorry about my lameness.. Ive never really tried to get involved in the mechanics of my other cars before..

oh, and i meant "Techie" not "Technie"..lol

 

[riplash]

Oops didnt see that before I hit reply!!

Cheers for the advice

 

[riplash]

Anyone know if ball joints should be replaced in pairs or doesnt it matter?

 

[Bennyboy]

do both sides if youve got the time and money but it doesnt really matter if you just do one side.

 

[Black Fox]

Best to get the tracking done after as this will show if youve bent anything else.

 

[BRUN]

if you havent already sourced this part, your local Motor World should be able to order this in the very same day for you mate......not many people realise we can get parts the same day.......

 

[riplash]

Cheers!

Should be ok though, I live pretty close to one of the GSFcarparts shops..

I think Im going to replace the arm too, even though it doesnt look bent it might have been weakened in the impact, and its cheap enough to get sorted to satisfy my own piece of mind!