I am replacing my RF lower ball joint assembly on my '07 IS350 and was wondering if this is a DIY job or does the joint have to be pressed in? Also, will it have to be re-alligned or can I just bolt on and go? Thanks

 

If I remember the lower ball joints on my '06 350, there is actually 2 of them for each side. They are part of a piece that I believe you can purchase that entire piece with both already installed and ready to install. Definitely a DIY, if you have the right tools.

 

Thanks for the reply...

Here is a picture of the lower ball joint assembly...the steering is connected and the ball joint. Just wondering if it has to be re-aligned. You can see the fluid leaking out of the seals.

 

You need to have your car re-align for sure since that piece is directly involved with the car steering system.

 

Here is an example of what I was trying to describe earlier. Didn't know they would be this cheap! Good for you huh!

http://www.ebay.com/itm/BECK-ARNLEY-...ab7539&vxp=mtr

Personally, I would opt for the Moog branded piece...but that ebay link didn't have pics of the actual piece.

 

I have already ordered the part from Lexus...around $72 I believe.

Now that I think about it, I think I'll go ahead and order the other side as well and do both at the same time since I have to have it aligned. I just hope these are easy to take off and put on.

 

doesnt look all that bad to remove at least from that pic. just remover to rent or buy a ball joint remover tool.

 

He wont need to realign as he will only be poping the ball joint off the outer tie rod and not actually messing with the settings.

 

^Agreed! Just ensure that those bolts/nuts are torqued back to factory specs and you should be good to go.

Oh, a pickler fork will go a long ways in helping you remove that piece. You can rent one from AutoZone for free (after deposit and tool is returned of course), or just pick one up to keep from Harbor Freight.

 

Thanks for the info, one side was delivered today and the other should be here in a couple of days...then on to the install.

I've never worked on the suspension so this should be an experience.

 

You are half right. But think about the play, wear and tear the old ball joint have. Then the next day you change it to the fit and tight one. It will affect the car alignment for sure

Also, you have to change to whole lower pice where two ball joints are resided which will make the difference even more.

 

Did you notice any noises with the ball joints leaking. My ball joints look the same as the ones you posted on the pic but are leaking a little more and i also have some weird noises coming it while driving in uneven roads. No pooping noises just crackling noises and thump noises from it.

 

Yes, I had creaking and mild popping when turning sharply at low speeds. The new joints helped some, but I think some of it is coming from the brakes as well.

 

I have the same issue with the lower ball joints. However, if you do not mess with the steering components and just replace the ball joint assembly you won't have realigned your car. If your ball joints were in terrible (very bad) condition then realign your car. There's no info anywhere about this just putting it out there.

 

Once I'm in my new house, I'll be replacing my LBJs and tie rods. Too much slop in my steering wheel currently for my liking. An alignment will come thereafter.