Ball joint removal

[k2mountain]

I need to replace my ball joints and I'm having trouble separating the ball joint from the knuckle on a '94 Toyota pickup 4WD. I have a a gear puller like what the manual uses but the ball joint is so stuck its bending my gear puller. Anyone have any good ideas how to remove the stuck ball joint?

[fourwd1]

Have you tried a ball joint fork (AKA pickle fork) ?

[k2mountain]

I have one but it seems to be a touch thin and wont fit around the ball joint. Do you know if they make different sizes or should I force it on with a hammer?

[stump runner]

there are at least two sizes ( ball joint and the smaller tierod end seperator ). you might have success with penetrating oil. put a load on the ball joint with your puller then give the ball joint socket a couple good whacks. on the other hand there is no substitute for the right tool.

[Joe runner]

when i changed mine i just gave it a big ass hit with the deadblow hammer and it came right off :D

[k2mountain]

Ended up getting it off with a pitman arm puller. Sucker was on tight!