2000 Dodge Dakota front ball joints and control arm bushing

RGIESLER

MEMBER
2000 DODGE DAKOTA
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
95,000 MILES

I need to replace my front ball joints and I'm also going to replace the front control arm bushings. Do I need to remove the coil spring to do this?
It looks like I need to in order to remove the ball joints safely but I'm not sure as I haven't done this type of work on this vehicle.

1 Reply

BEEF99

MEMBER
152 POSTS

If, you have front coil springs and they are attatched to the control arms, then yes you should remove them before attempting to replace your balljoints and control arm bushings. You can rent a compression tool from your local auto parts supplier at a reasonable price. If you have never done this before, please get a Chilton's or Haynes repair manual and follow the instructions so that your job is easier and you will be more safe. It is a job that will take a few hours and if you have air tools, it will make your job even easier.