Hey guys, 2011 f150 xlnt 5.0. I ruined my drivers side 4wd actuator and am now replacing it. However, in order to get to it, I had to cut the nut off of the upper ball joint. Now I need to replace the upper ball joint. I see a snap ring on the lower one, but not the upper. Is there a way to replace the upper ball joint, or do i need to replace the entire control arm?
Thanks in advance,
Alex

 

You can replace the ball joint with a tool you can rent from the parts store but it's a pain, much easier to just replace the whole UCA.

 

Especially since a whole new UCA including ball joint and bushings can be had for less than $50 per side

 

if you just cut the nut , why need to replace the UCA ? buy a nut at hardware store for $2

 

I bet that by "cutting the nut off" he means he cut off the whole thing, i.e. threaded rod and all

 

Yeah I had to cut the rod to get the nut off. I got a new control arm. Thanks guys

 

Looking for a nut now for the ball joint on the new control arm. Local Napa and ace hardware don't have anything. 1/2 -20 and 9/16-18 both come close but not quite. Anyone know what the thread size is? It's the same as on the tie rod end and the control arm to frame bolts. Thanks, Alex

 

Do you have a tractor supply ? Best nut and bolt selection IMO

 

No tractor supply here. I'll try fastenal. I think it's m14x2

 

They should be able to hook you up..