How To Replace Ford F250 F350 Super Duty 4X4 Upper and Lower Ball Joints

Video Tip: How to replace upper and lower ball joints on Ford F-250 and F350 Super Duty 4X4 trucks. The subject vehicle is a 2008 Ford F350 Super Duty 4X4 equipped with the power stroke engine however this general process covers many year model Ford Trucks. Watch this video for more information. Here is a link to my video showing the installation of the inner spindle seal which was not covered in this production. • Ford Super Duty Spindl...

[@readbranch7180]

Best video I have seen on something this complicated - shows you exactly what to do (and not to do). Explains tools needed and tells you why certain steps are required. Highly recommend!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you.

[@13moreau]

This is an awesome demonstration. I've done this job a few times, but I wish I would have viewed your video first. See a comment about it being tedious having to watch you remove every bolt ! I strongly DISAGREE !!! Cause it gives a tutorial to the less mechanically inclined. Plus we can always fast forward, which is better then being left wondering. AWESOME VID !!! YOU THE MAN ! THANKS !!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+13moreau Thank you for the encouragement. IM still trying to raise the bar for my videos and even appreciate the criticism if its not mean spirited. Im editing an F150 ball joint video now that im sure will satisfy even the hard core youtube critics. Thanks for watching!

[@stephenreiner1523]

..

[@hammaswingah1693]

Thank you so much for making this video. It saved me thousands. I never would've tackled this job without your video.

[@robertnaegeli3088]

Very thorough and professional video. The detail is incredible. I'm astounded by the complexity of this repair. Great job!

[@wayne9518]

Just found this. My son just got a quote for around $3000 for ball joints, u-joints, tie rods, and drag link. We will put this information to good use. Thank you.

[@gregoryetter2544]

Not sure who needs to hear this, but please consider researching the "Lisle 38700 Spindle Snap Ring Pliers Ford SD" if you're encountering challenges. I endured multiple iterations of pliers and the Lisle (or its clones) are the only pliers that made this repair "enjoyable." To the content creator: - I used this video the first time I pieced together my front axle years ago. - No matter how many times I've disassembled and reassembled my front axle, this video continues to be my go-to reference for front axle repairs. - In my opinion that speaks volumes to your value to the community. Thank you!

[@871jamie]

I bought the Lisle pliers, the ones I got are junk! The ratchet arm would not alllow the pliers to close like they should it would bind real bind so took the ratchet arm off and they worked.

[@MILSPEC49]

Thank you so much Car Doctor for all the help that you gave me. Just finished installing new ball joints in my 2019 Ford F-250 SuperDuty. I've never tackled a project that big or difficult. Never would have gotten it done without your help.... THANK YOU !!

[@grymn01]

I just found this video today. Your calm, non-bombastic and methodical elaboration is excellent. Thank you sir!

[@richharris2669]

Wanted to say thanks for doing this video! It really helped me out replacing my wheel bearings.

[@ockamedes1]

I've been a mechanic for about 30 years now that and can fix most things with no help but now that youtube exists i always run through a job before i do it so i can see where other mechanics run into problems what tools they used and get torque specs and special tool info which always makes a job easier when you can go directly to what works best thank you for putting up all the videos you put up i enjoy them and they make my life easier...keep up the good work.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

thank you. Good luck with the job

[@rugiemedina]

Thank you, Sir, for the very informative video. Very thorough, including mentioning the little things, such as torque specs, things to watch out for, proper tools, and a good workable sequence. Not only did this video help me save a little cash, I was able to fix a lot of discovery work - replacing the axle shaft U-Joints, new axle shaft dust covers, etc. I opted to replace the wheel bearings and purchased new Warn hubs. I did review the video prior to even ordering everything and was able to plan my work well with minimal back & forth to the auto parts store. Thank you again. Peace!

[@leadweightguy6134]

I have watched a number of videos on this procedure. I still learned quite a bit watching your very thorough video afterwards. Hope you continue sharing your quality repair/mechanical knowledge. Thanks

[@Steve-qo4hi]

Great video! This is by far one of the best "how-to" automotive vids out there. Thank you for taking the time to show us the right way to do this job!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you. I appreciate the encouragement. Take care.

[@fredely1972]

its safe to say, you just saved me about $1500 , THANK YOU !!!!!!

[@MetalTeamster]

In the greater Seattle area... I believe this is north of 2 grand with the new brakes.... yeah...this dude is the real deal without a doubt...

[@whiteboyfromernul]

yep saved me $1100 in NC,even after buying the seal tool im in for about $300 with ball joints and tie rod ends

[@ethansmith800]

Same.

[@VaHKGuy]

Thanks for the video. I had done this 5 years ago & needed a good refresher. I appreciate your help.

[@cdnbroncolife1889]

Honestly ... THE best video for upper and lower ball joints on the interweb!! Great job sir ! Hats off

[@ginolevino]

Thank you for the video. I replaced the caster bushings today, and boy was that a job... 200k miles and probably never apart. Next on the list are rebuilding the front axles, replacing the ball joints, and hubs. Your video made it much easier. Thanks!

[@rider3844]

I just finished this project on both sides on an excursion 4x4 Diesel, I just wanted say thank you. could not have done it without your video. Hope you see this comment.

[@BeboGama]

Although I will never make a repair like this, I greatly enjoyed the high quality of your teaching, I learn about the correct handling of the tools, thank you so much.

[@gmctech]

Did my first F350 ball joints ever today... Your video was invaluable! I was able to take extra care and extract the old hub seal and reuse it as I had neither the install tool nor a new seal available to me. Not a bad job after I've done my first today... But I'd definitely have a new seal next time as I could see where things could go south on ya in a heartbeat 😉

[@paulw2791]

As a Ford dealer tech this guy is mechanically inclined. I would 100% let him work on my truck. Here has the correct tools and knowledge to do the repair. Thank you for the detailed video.

[@dillionmcclain9390]

I just did mine today and followed this step by step I feel I was able to do a good job with all your info thank you for the video man you do good work

[@zaugitude]

Thanks for this great step-by-step guide. Saved me a good bit of guessing and hassle. Well done technically too, great camera work and lighting.

[@adamwaldroup]

I am in the middle of this project right now and this video has been extremely helpful. Thank you!

[@yeswereact5283]

Liked and subscribed. I was blown away by your attention to detail when filming this ... Then seen later in the video you did this all with a go pro, iPhone, and make shift camera mounts. That really blew me away. Great job!

[@Cryptic78]

Wanted to say thanks again. Finished replacing a failed u-joint in my 2011 F250. This video was is a great reference. You were not kidding about needing a big hammer!

[@pablo3735]

I just came here to leave a comment and a like. This dude got me through some tough times with my 6.0 and I’m here to pay him back the best way I can

[@dieseldc409]

I genuinely thank you. No bullshit and very informative. I’ve learned a lot just watching and it ain’t hard after watching this.

[@bev-arniesmedstad4318]

This is the person to watch, very detailed and exact. One of the best video productions on vehicle repair any where.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you!

[@Diesel_Mountain]

I have a list of scheduled/preventative maintenance and track everything I do on my truck, and this is one of my upcoming projects. This is the perfect video for my maintenance playlist to get the job done and continue learning vehicle related things.

[@marcellemay7721]

Great camera work and editing. I know this took you a while to film and edit. Super good job on that. Plus your explanation and detail was spot on.

[@risersgarage7004]

Thanks for the video, although I have done ball joints many times I was unsure on the axle removal for the newer Super Duty trucks. The tool was nowhere to be found in my town, I was able to use a piece of 5" exhaust pipe to drive them back in. I appreciate the time you took on this video.

[@Geordo1960]

Also great job with camera work. Very skilled work.

[@matt910077]

You sir are both a gentleman and a scholar for filming this. That was better than witnessing the Haynes manual tear down. Even included the torque specs. You're just one hell of a human being.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you. It was my pleasure. You take care.

[@Go2Sleep911]

I want to say this was one a the best videos on this I have seen. Your a great teacher. I have to tackle this on my 09 F250. minus the ball joints I hope, but will be replacing hubs, 4x4 locker (one is seized in the lock position), and the 2 axle shaft seals and U joints. I just hope the permanently locked passenger wheel as not trashed the axle. Thank you

[@billrussell8758]

This is one of the best instructional videos I've seen on youtube. Can't thank you enough for creating it. It gave me confidence that I can do my own SD ball joint replacement.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+Bill Russell So glad it helped. Blessings to you Bill!!

[@fieldsofomagh]

From what I've seen, a true Pro at work !

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Oh thanks, I've been called a lot worse. Take care.

[@Chance2Go]

This is an excellent video and was my primary source to do the ball joints on my 2005 F350 DRW. Thank you, you did a great job!

[@robertlasater2609]

SAVED MY BUTT..... I DIDNT HAVE THE AXLE IN ALL THE WAY AND IT KEPT BINDING....THOUGHT IT WAS THE HUB. WATCHING YOU SWING THAT HAMMER SEATING THE AXLE SHAFT REALLY HELPED.

[@nicholasmasi9420]

you sir are top of the line thanks i was doing uppers and lowers on a 2011 f250 super duty and generally im a jeep and gmc man myself but we have this f250 the only one in a fleet of ten trucks and your video saved me a whole lot of time thanks again

[@ThecardoctorTV]

glad it helped. take care

[@rickcase1244]

Done and done! Completed my ball joints yesterday by following your step by step video. I've never done this type of repair before, but I found your video very helpful and taught me a lot. Thank you! I've also done my brakes and rotors front and rear following your tutorials. I did have to have a local shop press on the axle seal and ball joints and was charged $45 for only one side as I was a referral to them. I broke my vise, busted my workbench loose from the wall and cracked the lower support beam. So I had the shop help me out.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+Rick Case Sounds like a great success story! Spending $45 per side is not bad considering the savings over having the job done elsewhere. Proud of you. Take care.

[@jlm3303]

Clearly something I could now do myself.... And Clearly something I'm more than happy to pay a professional to do for me.. Thank you for all you're efforts and your VERY well made videos.

[@skipreading6946]

WOW, this is a great instructional video. This man is precise, thorough and very helpful. I enjoyed it very much, just wish I had the tools he has.

[@nathangreer2809]

Thanks for the video. I followed this step by step. Very informative. Saved me a ton of money with out taking it to the shop. Very time consuming but got it done over the weekend. Also did the tie rod ends, track bar etc.

[@jefflynn4079]

Thank you for this video. We just completed this project on my 2006 F350. We followed your instructions to the letter. All went as good.

[@1010degrees]

Thanks for the great video. I wish I watched this before some of the others. I laughed at your frustration at 23:40. But to tell you the truth, I had a lot more of those moments working on my ball joints this past week.

[@roberrjenkins3001]

Thank you very much,I am replacing the knuckle ball joints in my 2008 f250 super and until I found you video I was following instructions for up to 2004 super duty ,your video helped me a great deal. The right tools are a must. Thanks again you clarified all my questions

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+Roberr Jenkins thanks for stopping by!

[@pmcgowan1971]

Thanks for your help! Tackled this job, couldn't have done it without your help. Went back and referenced several times. Your presentation is smooth, speed of speach is right on. You are to be commended. Now where do I get one of those Ford hammers! Lord knows you need it on this job. Shout out to Dennys driveshaft if I can, ordered u, ball joints and seals. Great prices, fast delivery.

[@jeftex8875]

32 people never got past their Fisher-Price plastic tool kit. Great video...step by step , with very good camera work... I am going to have to tackle this on my '99 F250. I am going to have to get one of those BFHs like you use though.

[@Smallchangegotrained]

Can I double-like this video? Saved me so many times throughout this process, and I'm only half way through! THANK YOU!

[@ranjah007]

I love this guy. Concise instructions and best thing is he actually torques all of the fasteners. A real Master tech. Thanks!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you very much!

[@funbeard3703]

Great step by step video. Also thanks for letting me know what tools i need before i start the job

[@jamesmarquis5615]

Great video!! It just doesn’t get any better than this. In fact, I’m confident now that I can do my own 2006 f 250. Thank you for what you do and for sharing!!

[@peterkoob6681]

Thank you for the detailed video, people complain about length of videos... obviously they didn't have VHS. I watched this at 1.75 speed, just to see if I would feel comfortable to DIM after watching I feel as long as I have the right tool(s) and your video to go to I believe I can accomplish this. Thanks for the video and the time!

[@dakotahicks2450]

This is one of them most informative straight to the point videos I've seen. Thank you very much!! Might be almost an hour, but You don't leave out any details and are not trying to talk so fast I can't understand you just to make the video shorter.

[@jmburk55]

I found this video after watching several others. Your video is the easiest to follow and just makes sense. Thank you! I just picked up a new track bar as I'm getting death wobbles in my 2011 F250. I'm afraid of how much wear I have on the ball joints in my steering system.

[@doeknob5301]

Excellent video , nothing like having the right tools !!!!

[@Dfour]

Just have to add a comment on here that this was a spectacular walk through. It could not have been shown any better.

[@mpmurphy878]

Awesome! Good detail and great footage/angles of the process. The effort is noticable.

[@bruce-bruce7975]

Yes, thank you for this video!!! You helped me get through mine. Keep them coming please.

[@christopherheiser8344]

Great job on the step by step with the job at hand. Also great job on being professional throughout the video. Congrats

[@AjkOvs]

Thank you so much for this video 🙏🏽. You have a lot of patience and the gift of teaching. Appreciate you brotha! In case anyone is wondering this is the exact same method for a 2019 ford f250. Needed to do the upper ball joint on my truck because I did a lift and installed my caster shim and of course used a hammer and absolutely killed the threading on my ball joint. Rookie mistake but all good now!

[@stevegarmier563]

Very detailed video. I can fix just about anything but before i do i like to watch someone's way of doing it. I have to say u do a great job of showing how to. Now if the heat would go down a little i could go out and do them lol.

[@curtishall3333]

By far the best video I have seen for this. Thank you for taking the time to make this video. Saved me over $1,000 doing it myself.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+Curtis Hall Excellent! Glad it helped. Thanks for watching.

[@slfisher70]

Thank you for a very thorough video! Excellent work. Glad you show exactly the RIGHT tools to be using.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+slfisher 70 thanks for watching!

[@terrellscaife2411]

Hey bud I don’t know if you already have one but the Astro 78100 larger ball joint press comes in handy when the regular ball joint press is too small it’s saved my bacon 🥓 quite a few times

[@ralphowens8368]

Thank you so much for posting this video. Just finished this on my son’s F-250. Tremendously helpful.

[@akowned1]

Great video! Thank you for taking the time put it together, it really helped me out!

[@badmatt4227]

One of the most informative and thorough videos I have watched. However, this man reminds me of my brother, intensely detailed and robotic. Please continue making videos but try to relax as little. This comes across as a training video, I just a DYIer who enjoys the freedom of fixing my own stuff. Personally, I tend to have a few beers when I make a video, whoo hoooo.

[@matthewsnyder7950]

Great Video!! This was very helpful for me to plan the process and helped me realize what parts were necessary to complete the job properly. Thanks for the in-depth video...

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you for watching!

[@eddiem9942]

Awesome work and walk through. Helped my small business save huge money !!

[@Mpreuit]

seriously man, thank you for the awesome video. Never done more than brakes...now replaced ball joints and the hubs on my 2004 F250. I owe you like 800 bucks! Thanks again!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Awesome! Glad it helped.

[@freedom1439]

Thanks for the video. I just did mine, and ohhh boy was it labor intensive, I’m getting older and everything is getting harder to do....it took me 3 days about 4 to 5 hrs a day....I replaced bearings also.....thanks again.

[@horseshoer4527]

Great video. I really appreciate all the detail and professional insight.

[@atxjax1]

Great videos as always. Thank you very much. This helped me do them on a F350. For me it was easier to just knock out the old ball joints with a mini sledge and a short thick walled piece of pipe instead of pressing them out. Then I used my 20 Ton shop press to install the upper ball joint. Finished off the bottom joint with a C-clamp balll joint press as in the video.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Awesome! Thanks for watching the vid. take care

[@974pb]

FINALLY, someone shows the passenger side being done on one of these with great instructions. THANK YOU!! Excellent video.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thanks!

[@jackmosel6660]

You’re the best. Wish you were close. Thanks! Great instruction. The right tools 🛠 make it bearable!

[@williamscavone722]

Super helpful. Someone may have already said this, but after cranking and cranking on the press and not having the da*n thing come out, DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE the value of a nap, re-watching, and then turning the press around and removing the joint in the correct direction: EASY PEASY. Thanks!

[@chadwinters6089]

Great video! Thank you for taking the time to make the video. No short cuts here!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed it. I hope you drop in and visit again.

[@stubbyboy39]

Car Doctor--Great video! awesome job. Really helpful when doing this repair! Thanks for your time and effort to make a clear and concise video.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+stubbyboy39 Thank you very much for the complements. I'm glad you found it helpful and I appreciate you stopping by. Blessings!

[@vespernoyer]

Just wanted to say thanks for the step by step process. SImple to follow. Thanks for the torque amounts for each step too! I only wish you would have shown the inner axle dust seal remove and replacement.

[@dennisst99]

Great video! Thanks for making such a detailed account of the job.

[@johnmclarty3201]

I have to replace ball joints and hub assy on my 06 F350 and came across your video. GREAT VIDEO is all I can say. Step by step with "knowledge" hints along the way. Thank you for your time and effort in doing this and other videos. I know you don't have much to do in AK in the winter time, so I guess video making is your past time......lol Thanks again

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Lots to do here in the winter but lots of cars to fix so I don't have a lot of extra time to do fun stuff. I enjoy making the vids so its my pleasure. Thanks for watching

[@jasong5163]

First video I've seen of yours. Very informative on every move. I think it would be cool to speed up video when wrenching. Keep up the awesome work!

[@biff1tannen]

Great video😁👍 informative. Now I can fix my excursion my self. Thanks man

[@lancehughes4132]

Excellent video Tim; many thanks. I must share this.......I got into one of these puppies as far as replacing the hub and the shaft dust seal. I actually managed to install the 'large' seal very carefully with a few modified left over pluming supplies. I am now the proud owner of Ford's universal tool; the sledge hammer. I permanently plugged the pathetic vacuum 4x4 actuator. Too bad engineering is not one of Ford's better ideas.

[@MegaLostOne]

Thank you very much for this video. Very clear explanations on what tools and parts are needed to do this. I have a 2012 F350 6.7L 4x4 that doesn't need the ball joints done yet (only 34K on it) but I favorited this video for when I do have to do it. I had replaced the upper and lower ball joints on my 2003 2500 Dodge Cummins 4x4 and this looks like there is a bit more work involved because of the seals although it looks like I won't have to fight the bearings as bad as the Dodge.

[@monsterbriteleds3696]

This was an excellent and thorough video with clear explanations even I can understand. I appreciate your craftsmanship and your willingness to share pro tips. Thanks.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you. I enjoyed filing it. Take care.

[@OldRocker181]

Awesome video Tim. Been doing it for years and just learned a ton. Keep up the good work!!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

OldRocker181 Thank you for the complements! Sorry it took me a while to respond. Keep on wrenching!

[@whiteboyfromernul]

you have the best videos,like class room quality without being there,thanks for the time and effort you've invested

[@nigelw598]

Gday, I’ve been here a few times before when replacing brakes, the free wheeling hubs and now the hub bearing assemblies. I REALLY appreciate that you took the time to film and post this. I now owe you a third beer! Cheers my friend 🍻🍻🍻

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thanks

[@smbrooksus]

Best video on KZbin for this repair. Nice careful job on the truck, nice careful job on the video. Thanks. Makes me more confident tackling the job.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+smbrooksus thanks for the complements. You got this!

[@Tgang1000]

Great video! I'm currently doing the ball joints, hub assembly and seals on an 02' F350. This helped a ton...I also picked up a BFH, cuz it's a Ford!

[@the74impala]

Best SD ball joint video I have seen. Thanks for you time. I have the seal tool on the way. Looks so easy compared to going without... even if I only use it on one truck. Perfect amount of information, without all the wasted time most people seem to pile in other videos. Thanks again.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

the74impala thank you for the complements. Let me know if you find a good deal on the tool and we will pass that info on. Good luck.

[@mattgilbert8396]

Do you know the part number of the tool?

[@the74impala]

@mattgilbert8396 depends what year SD you have. The coil springs are different than leaf.

[@chuckbobek6800]

Outstanding how to video. You know what ur doing and gave me a few pointers. Many thanx and u can wrench on my truck any day. (That's an huge vote of confidence).

[@dans2846]

WOW!!!! I sure do wish you were my neighbor. I would be bothering you all the time. Thanks for the great video it will help me a lot!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Haha. Thank you neighbor.

[@ananias8382]

good job!. Thanks for taking the time to do such a great video. Keep up the good work.

[@arcdraw]

Great video! Very informative. Glad I found your channel. Thanks for taking the time to make this!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

arcdraw thank you! Good luck wrenching

[@cptstu1]

Thanks so much for the awesome step by step ball joint video , I was a little dubious about doing my own on my 07 Ford F-350 diesel but I followed your video and got it done no trouble thanks again

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Stuart Daccus super glad it helped! Thanks for tuning in!

[@moebey9187]

@@ThecardoctorTV hello. I wanted to ask.. is it necessary to change the axel shaft seal. Anyway around that? Or is it a must do?

[@jwats7269]

Attention to details (torque specs, etc..) most helpful! Many thanks! Tackling the job today on my '03 F250 4x4 with "Ford tool" close by. :-)

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thanks!