Help with suspension - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

elcaBob · #1 10-06-2023, 06:54 PM

Everyone. I had my driver's side rupper control arm literally break on my 85 300D. I'm replacing it, but... I can't get the the upper control arm separated. Look at 2:55 in this video. That's the part I can't get to separate. Any suggestions?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uutWGVyiTiI&pp=ygUrbWVyY2VkZXMgMzAwZCB1cHBlciBjb250cm9sIGFybSByZXBsYWNlbWVudA%3D%3D

Thanks!

Frank Reiner · #2 10-06-2023, 08:35 PM

eB:

With all respect, directing those from whom you want help to a video is probably not a good start. A few still pics of the failed part(s), and the work area, will deliver more information.

Mark123 · #3 10-07-2023, 02:39 PM

Yeah, but if you scroll ahead to 2:55 you see the exact part.
Have you tried using a ball joint separator? Not the pickle fork variety. The one where the fork part of the goes in by the rubber boot on top of the spindle and the other part of the hinged assembly pushes on the threaded bolt of the ball joint. Tighten it up. Give the bolt side a few taps to make it want to pop out. Maybe tighten it up a little more and tap again. It works the same on tie rod ends and the lower ball joint. I over tightened and broke my nice Hazet tool, so I bought a Harbor Freight model, was a little more careful, and it worked fine.

elcaBob · #4 10-07-2023, 03:28 PM

Frank. My apologies. I’m didn’t know what the part was called and thought that was the best way to point it out.

Mark123, I tried the pickle fork. I’ll try you’re suggestion next.

vstech · #5 10-08-2023, 11:08 PM

Ok, old school method here…

Get TWO ball peen hammers.
Hold one against the steel spindle passage. Take the other and hit the opposite side from the hammer… the ball joint should pop right out.

Diesel911 · #6 10-13-2023, 09:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by elcaBob

Frank. My apologies. I’m didn’t know what the part was called and thought that was the best way to point it out.

Mark123, I tried the pickle fork. I’ll try you’re suggestion next.

No matter what method you use I would get a propane torch and heat it before applying the ball joint separator to it.

Part of the problem is finding a tie rod/ball joint Seperator that has an end that slide in and has a god fit.

These are basic designs that have worked for others. If you are getting the online you won't know if they are good fits or not.

A thread with one if the tools in action.
http://www.peachparts.com/Wikka/W123UpperBallJoint

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/179284-write-up-ball-joints-lower-control-arm-bushings-tool-review-pics.html

You might go to an auto parts place to see what free rental tools they have.

resago2000 · #7 10-13-2023, 09:21 AM

there's various sizes of those fork pullers, get one that has a 22mm opening