So I ordered a new draglink because mine was shot.. Axle side popped off just fine but the pitman arm side won't. Right now I have a 4 lb hammer and that's not budging it. I'm leaving tomorrow for a big trip and need this done. Besides going to autozone and getting a puller anyone have any advice? I have limited tools because I am visiting a friend on her campus. I have a torch and thought about putting heat on it but then I thought it might now be a good idea. Any suggestions?

 

I use this tool (a similar one from KD, anyway) ...

http://www.etoolcart.com/balljointseparatorotc6297.aspx

Pounding could lead to damage to your steering box.

 

Thanks... Looks like I'll be hitting up autozone tomorrow

 

Yep... this ^^^^...

 

Yeah, don't pound your box. lol

 

I always use a 1/2" pneumatic impact driver, which makes removal quick and easy. You wrote that you have limited tools. Not sure how hard that will be with just a 1/2" ratchet and socket, but it does take quite a bit of pressure and it makes a big pop when it finally releases. If you don't have a breaker bar you may want to buy or borrow one while running around.

 

I use a fork. Only issue is the boot gets destroyed. Do yourself a favor and put some
Anti-sieze on the taper.

 

First option, use an appropriate puller. That joint is in a rather tough spot but you can get one in there. Second option, put a BMF hammer head on one side of the arm aside the taper, smack the living $#!t out of the opposite side with another BMF hammer. A spritz of PB Blaster will help with the persuasion.

 

Thanks to everyone who responded. I was able to bum a ride to pick up my gf car and went to advanced this morning. Picked up a puller but the damn thing still wouldn't budge. The puller also kept coming off one side.. I had the puller on as tight as I could get it and hit it with a hammer. Repeated that process for a couple hours and nothing. Finally I had the puller on and decided to take a break and the thing finally just popped off by itself. Thanks everyone!

 

hahaha... so that's something my granddad taught me with pressed stuff.... if it's tough to come off, put the puller on it, tighten it up, spray it, walk away for an hour or so.