4 replies to this topic

[Andy3659]

Hi all,

 

I am overhauling the suspension on my Mk III Elf and cannot get the ball joint out of the tube that goes into the hydro bag. I have searched for similar problems on TMF and it seems to me that I just need to keep using WD-40, maybe some careful heat and be very patient....but am I missing anything obvious?  Very grateful for any thoughts you may have!

 

 

 

[mab01uk]

Some useful 2 pages of info and suggestions in link below from the Mk1 forum but you may need to register to view the Technical section of the forum.

 

Hydrolastic unit knuckle joint

http://mk1-forum.net...pic.php?t=11718

Edited by mab01uk, 08 July 2024 - 08:36 AM.

[gazza82]

Use a proper penetrating fluid .. WD40 is a lubricant ...

[stuart bowes]

standard WD40 isn't even that really is it, it works temporarily as a lubricant then dries out, it's designed for water dispersal and rust prevention (originally on missiles, apparently ?)

 

you can get other types of WD though specifically for penetrating, or with white grease, or for cutting, etc, I've got a shelf with all sorts of them lined up

Edited by stuart bowes, 08 July 2024 - 09:57 AM.

[eric67]

If it’s really stuck I would suggest removing the displacer from the car and then removing the gaiter from the unit. You’ll probably need to cut it off but this will expose the spigot that holds the ball joint which you can then carefully grip with vice grips while twisting the ball joint with another pair. I’d be wary of using too much heat for fear of damaging the rubber internals but penetrating oil should help.