Separator

[kingnothing395]

2019 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn 4WD

What tool works best for separating the UCA from the knuckle? I've worn myself out pounding on a pickle fork, pounding on the UCA and knuckle themselves. I've tried craftsman's separator, but it is too small, and another (larger) separator that was also too small. I need 3.75" or more to push the bolt up through the joint. I've borrowed a ball joint separator kit from the local auto parts store, but it is the wrong type.

Can anyone recommend a tool for this?

 

[Jedi9]

I used a 3 lb hammer to the UCA. Sorry I don't know what type of separator fits.

 

[Scram1500]

I used this, appears to be a knock off of an "official tool". The thing that seemed to work the best was tightening the bolt with a closed end wrench and hitting the stub with a hammer at the same time

 

[HSKR R/T]

I used this, appears to be a knock off of an "official tool". The thing that seemed to work the best was tightening the bolt with a closed end wrench and hitting the stub with a hammer at the same time
View attachment 179869

Even with this tool, you still need to hit UCA with a hammer after getting tension in ball joint

 

[HSKR R/T]

2019 Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn 4WD

What tool works best for separating the UCA from the knuckle? I've worn myself out pounding on a pickle fork, pounding on the UCA and knuckle themselves. I've tried craftsman's separator, but it is too small, and another (larger) separator that was also too small. I need 3.75" or more to push the bolt up through the joint. I've borrowed a ball joint separator kit from the local auto parts store, but it is the wrong type.

Can anyone recommend a tool for this?

Hopefully you are replacing your ball joints. Using a pickle fork does nothing but destroy the boot on the ball joint

 

[kingnothing395]

I replaced the whole upper control arm. Both sides.