Author Topic: Spindle Help  (Read 1489 times)

Offline raul7211

  • Newbie
  • Posts: 13
  • Newbie
Spindle Help
« on: October 08, 2019, 08:34:47 AM »
Just removed my spindles and airbags, installing drop spindles and lowering springs - assuming all of what I removed has been there for years.  When I removed the spindle, the two 'rubber' pieces that are attached to the control arms (upper and lower) that pack grease are ripped and falling apart.  What is that part called so that I can replace it.  The 'screw' that moves (joint i guess) is fine, its the black rubber piece with grease that needs replaced.  Lack of terminology is killing me - thanks in advance!

Offline Da67goatman

  • Site Supporters
  • Junior Member
  • ******
  • Posts: 757
  • Burban
Re: Spindle Help
« Reply #1 on: October 08, 2019, 09:11:04 AM »
I believe your talking about the ball joint boots being ripped.  If the ball joint itself isn't worn out, you can get replacement boots, but if the joint is shot, the new joint comes with a new boot as well.
<Pitcrew>
1989 R2500 Suburban mild 350 TBI 700r4 10.5" 14bolt 4.10 w/ 33s
1992 fullsize Blazer 4x4  35s no lift, 4.10s, Hella driving lights, TJ Flares, Huge bumpers, Snorkel, custom interior

Offline raul7211

  • Newbie
  • Posts: 13
  • Newbie
Re: Spindle Help
« Reply #2 on: October 08, 2019, 09:54:30 AM »
Yes, doing a little more research, it is the ball joint boot.  Thinking I should just replace the entire ball joint.  Now to figure out that piece :)

Offline JohnnyPopper

  • Senior Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 2526
  • Old Goof
Re: Spindle Help
« Reply #3 on: October 08, 2019, 11:00:13 AM »
Depending on how many miles the ball joint have, you might re-use them with new boots.

Check for looseness, they should be hard to move.

On the other hand, while you have everything apart it would make sense to change them and remove all doubt.
1957 Apache 3100 235 Inline 6, 3 on the tree
1973 C-20, 3+3 454 4BBL TH400  Water Injection
1978 K-10, 350 4BBL TH350 NP203 M.M. Part time Kit/Hubs
1980 C-10 under construction

Offline raul7211

  • Newbie
  • Posts: 13
  • Newbie
Re: Spindle Help
« Reply #4 on: October 08, 2019, 11:27:13 AM »
Thanks - they seem 'fine', not too lose, threads look good.  As far as replacing them, any tips on how to remove them?  There is so much grease and gunk I can't tell if they are bolted on or riveted/pressed.  Any help?

Offline JohnnyPopper

  • Senior Member
  • ****
  • Posts: 2526
  • Old Goof
Re: Spindle Help
« Reply #5 on: October 09, 2019, 12:37:26 PM »
Lowers are pressed in, beat them out with a 5 pound sledge hammer.

Upper are riveted in, use a air hammer gun to cut the heads off while you use eye protection, actually a face shield would be better.

New uppers come with bolts.

Lowers can be air hammered in using a BIG socket that fits. However, the correct way would be to press them in.
1957 Apache 3100 235 Inline 6, 3 on the tree
1973 C-20, 3+3 454 4BBL TH400  Water Injection
1978 K-10, 350 4BBL TH350 NP203 M.M. Part time Kit/Hubs
1980 C-10 under construction