Front upper ball joint (right/left) designed for 1981-1997 Ford vehicles. This OEM-style replacement secures the steering knuckle to the control arm, maintaining proper suspension geometry and safe steering response. Built from hardened steel with precision bearings and a corrosion-resistant finish, it restores worn suspension articulations, reduces play and vibration, and helps prevent premature tire wear. Ideal for restoration or routine maintenance, it offers dependable durability and straightforward installation to get your vehicle back to factory handling.
Features:
- Fits 1981-1997 Ford vehicles (select trucks and SUVs; verify fitment by VIN or application guide).
- Front upper ball joint — compatible for both right and left hand applications.
- Hardened steel stud and press-fit housing for long-lasting strength and load resistance.
- Precision bearing design reduces play, improves steering feel, and minimizes vibration.
- Corrosion-resistant finish and durable boot to protect internal components from debris and moisture.
- Direct-replacement part ideal for restoration or suspension repair — no modifications required.
- Easy to install with basic tools; helps prevent uneven tire wear and enhances vehicle safety.
Installation / Application:
- Difficulty: 3/5
- Estimated time: 1-2 hours per side
Instructions:
- Park on level ground, engage parking brake and place wheel chocks behind rear wheels.
- Loosen front wheel lug nuts slightly, raise the vehicle with a jack and support securely on jack stands, then remove the front wheel.
- Locate the upper ball joint on the control arm where it connects to the steering knuckle; remove any cotter pin and loosen the castle nut securing the ball joint stud.
- Separate the ball joint stud from the steering knuckle using a ball joint separator or by striking the knuckle carefully with a hammer and punch until it releases.
- If the ball joint is press-fit, use a ball joint press to remove the old unit from the control arm; apply penetrating oil if necessary to ease removal.
- Clean the control arm bore and inspect for damage or corrosion; prepare the new ball joint for installation.
- Press the new ball joint into the control arm using the ball joint press until it is fully seated. Ensure orientation matches the original part.
- Reinstall the steering knuckle onto the ball joint stud, torque the castle nut to the manufacturer's specification, and fit a new cotter pin if required.
- Reassemble any components removed, reinstall the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the wheel lug nuts to spec.
- After installation, perform a test drive and have wheel alignment checked and adjusted if necessary.
About Redline Select
Redline Restomotive® has established itself as a premier brand in the world of classic car restoration, providing enthusiasts with high-quality parts that meet the exacting standards of original manufacturer specifications. Dedicated to the preservation of American automotive history, Redline Restomotive® combines advanced manufacturing techniques with an in-depth understanding of vintage vehicles. The result is a range of products that seamlessly blend into the design and function of classic cars, giving restorers and collectors the assurance that each part reflects the era’s style, quality, and performance.
Redline Select® is our premium line of steering and suspension products for all vehicle makes and models including both North American and Import vehicles. We have partnered with an ISO 9001/QS9000/TS16949 certified manufacturing facility with more than 40 years of experience in producing components that perform to the standards our customers expect. Our steering and suspension parts are backed by multiple quality control checks along the way—during production, prior to shipping from the factory, and at arrival. With our ISO 9001:2015 certification, we observe the world’s highest standards for quality management.
Vehicle Fitment:
The Vehicle Fitment Guide is to be used as a general reference. The data has been provided by our suppliers and manufacturers and may contain errors or incorrect data. Always refer to a professional to verify correct fitment for your vehicle.
| Make |
Model |
Years |
| Ford |
Bronco II |
1984 - 1990 |
| Ford |
Explorer |
1991 - 1994 |
| Ford |
F-100 |
1981 - 1983 |
| Ford |
F-150 |
1981 - 1986 |
| Ford |
Ranger |
1983 - 1997 |
