Should I do my own ball joints/ tire rod ends?
 

2002 Civic. I got a quote for $180 with alignment for driver lower ball joint and passenger out tie rod. The alignment is $60 on it's own. I have experience doing engine DIY projects but haven't touched suspension. Will I need more parts than in your basic toolkit? Thanks guys. I realize this is subjective, just wanting to weigh the pros and cons...

Re: Should I do my own ball joints/ tire rod ends?
 

rent the tools you need and is easy.

Re: Should I do my own ball joints/ tire rod ends?
 

Your going to need some bigger tools (1/2" drive) and you can rent the ball joint seperator and fork for tie rod end.

How much is your time worth? $180 does not sound to bad. Is $180 worth it if it takes you 4 hours of your time?

Re: Should I do my own ball joints/ tire rod ends?
 

Hell yeah man I'm making $10/hr right now lol thanks for the input guys

Re: Should I do my own ball joints/ tire rod ends?
 

Harbor freight or northern tool has the ball joint separator cheap, but many autoparts stores will loan you the tools with a refundable deposit. You can get parts from amazon or rockauto for 30-40% less than the parts stores. Usually the same parts.

Re: Should I do my own ball joints/ tire rod ends?
 

ball joints can be very dangerous if not installed properly,

i would suggest reading this entire thread.....

https://www.civicforums.com/forums/3...ml#post4687729

make sure you fully understand and follow the service bulletin i have attached in one of my replies there, good luck

Re: Should I do my own ball joints/ tire rod ends?
 

remember the ball joints are pressed in, so a PITA to remove.

aftermarket one will likely have a ring holding it in place instead.

Re: Should I do my own ball joints/ tire rod ends?
 

This is the best tool for the job when you need to reuse your balljoints:

http://www.harborfreight.com/3-4-qua...tor-99849.html

20% off coupon here:

http://www.dealsoff.com/harbor-freight-coupons/

You need to go cheap so, rent the balljoint and the other fork tool for tierods from your local auto parts store for free minus gas for traveling. You will also need the press and Honda adapter kit for ball joints. You would then need a circlip tool and Craftsman is the best and cheapest at $25... You know what just pay the $180. If you have the time, want the experience, and you are willing to buy the tools, you will likely break even when you add everything up INCLUDING gas to and from every store.

Re: Should I do my own ball joints/ tire rod ends?
 

Unless it is rusted in, these balljoints fall out even when you don't want them to on 7th gens. A floor jack from underneath works great.

Re: Should I do my own ball joints/ tire rod ends?
 

$180 is a good price, go for it. I just got a $948 quote from the dealer to replace passenger side ball joint!! Of course this is Ny and everything is more expensive!! :(