Ball Joint Removal

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2006 Honda Insight, 2005 Honda Insight, 2004 Honda Insight, 2003 Honda Insight, and 2002 Honda Insight. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Special Tools Required

Ball joint thread protector, 12 mm 07AAF-SDAA100
Ball joint remover, 28 mm 07MAC-SL0A202

NOTE: Always use a ball joint remover to disconnect a ball joint. Do not strike the housing or any other part of the ball joint connection to disconnect it.

Install the special tool or a hex nut onto the threads of the ball joint (A), by hand until it stops to prevent damage to the threaded end of the ball joint pin.

Fig 1: Installing Special Tool Or A Hex Nut Onto Threads Of Ball Joint
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Apply grease to the special tool on the areas shown (A). This will ease installation of the tool and prevent damage to the pressure bolt (B) threads.

Fig 2: Applying Grease To Special Tool
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
Install the special tool as shown. Insert the jaws carefully, making sure not to damage the ball joint boot. Adjust the jaw spacing by turning the pressure bolt (A).
NOTE: Fasten the safety chain (B) securely to a suspension arm or the subframe (C). Do not fasten it to a brake line or wire harness.

Fig 3: Installing Special Tool
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
After adjusting the adjusting bolt, make sure the head of the adjusting bolt (D) is in the position shown to allow the jaw (E) to pivot.
With a wrench, tighten the pressure bolt until the ball joint pin pops loose from the steering arm or knuckle. If necessary, apply penetrating type lubricant to loosen the ball joint pin.
NOTE: Do not use pneumatic or electric tools on the pressure bolt.
Remove the tool, then remove the nut from the end of the ball joint pin, and pull the ball joint out of the ball joint pin hole. Inspect the ball joint boot, and replace it if damaged.