1997 Dodge Ram ball foints, a-frame

KDOG52

MEMBER
1997 DODGE RAM

Suspension problem
1997 Dodge Ram V8 Two Wheel Drive Automatic

I just replaced all 4 ball joints on my 97 ram 1500 pu last week. The left upper has popped out of the a-frame. Twice. I had to replace the first new joint because I had to fork it out of the spindle and tore up the boot. Now the second one has popped out. What would cause this and what can I do to prevent it from happening again? I only have about 20 miles on the joints. Thanks.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Factory ball joints do not have a retainer clip, but the replacement ones do. Did you properly install the retainer clip? Was any damage done to the A-arm when removing the original one? Finally, are you sure it was the correct size / ball joint?

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Friday, April 23rd, 2010 AT 8:44 PM

KDOG52

MEMBER
1 POST

The lower joints had a lock ring on the top of the joint, as did the replacements. The uppers did not. Dont see how I could have damaged the arm. I used a press from the parts store. Thats some pretty hard steel. I've wondered about the size of the joint though. The right side has stayed in. I just assumed they were the same, although it is possible they gave me the wrong part. Thanks for your input.

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Sunday, April 25th, 2010 AT 8:49 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,885 POSTS

Return it and ask for a different one to see if it is tight going in. Also, I'm thinking there should be a c-clip (retainer) that holds it in place. Double check that and let me know what you find.

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Monday, April 26th, 2010 AT 10:45 AM