I just replaced all four ball joints (Perfect Circle) in my '95 Ram 1500 and after a few miles the right upper ball joint popped out of the upper suspension arm. Anyone heard of this before? I thought that when I pressed in the ball joint that it was a little easier than the other side. New one not to spec? Too bad Dodge just presses these in from the top with no retainers.
The hole in the A-arm gets stretched when incorrectly pushing the old joint out (not being moved out straight) or if the new joint goes in a bit off side. GM joints were great for this happening.
The best fix is a new A-arm. The next best is to tap the out of round part back in (use the joint as your guide) and lay down 2-3 small spot welds in the seam Or using JB weld as a cement to 'glue' it in. There may also be someone in the aftermarket who makes a better joint with a retainer ring. I'm sure there are others out there with other ideas too.
Good luck pete
After the second ball joint popped out, I bought a new upper control arm assembly and this problem is resolved. This right control arm may have been abused by 170,000 miles, two right fender benders, and two popped joints.
Thanks for your help! Bruce
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