I'm having suspension/steering issues which could relate to the ball joints. I want to replace them for piece of mind too. I'm pretty sure I can tackle them myself and would like some instructions from those that have done them (as well as ballpark price range for the ball joints and anything else relevant). Thanks!

Jack it up..

Grind/drill out the factory rivets, undo the nut and cotter pin on top of the joint where it mates to the spindle. replace and bolt new one in.

Sounds straight forward. Should I go OEM or get some at a parts store?

I'd think parts store.

It'* not as easy as it sounds...But then..what is?

The drilling does sound like a PITA! I'd rather not stress over repairing things myself, but if I get it done and save money it'll all be worth it.

Master cylinders are easier than they sound

What size drill bit do I need to drill the rivets out so as not to screw up the control arm?

I'll need an alignment afterwards right? :?

I replaced the ball joints on my car, took the control arms up to a shop and had the old ones taken off the arm. He used a torch to heat it up and then used an air chisel to pop the rivets out. They're probably hardened steel, hence next to impossible to drill. If I had to do it over again I would just see if I could get a whole new control arm with the ball joint riveted to it like factory.

This isn't sounding fun, and I don't have an air chisel. :?