Kia 517602G000 Ball Joint Assembly

Loosen the wheel lug nuts on the side to be dismantled, raise the front of the vehicle, support it securely on jackstands, and remove the wheel. Place a floor jack under the lower control arm to support it. Remove the cotter pin and loosen the nut on the lower balljoint a few turns, as this will prevent the balljoint and control arm from separating violently. Unbolt the lower balljoint from the steering knuckle. Attach a balljoint/tie-rod end removal tool to the balljoint; a separator tool is available at most automotive parts stores and will not damage the balljoint boot when used correctly. A pickle fork-type tool can also be used but only if the balljoint is to be replaced, as it will damage the rubber boot. Tighten the tool to break the balljoint free of the lower control arm, then remove the nut and detach the balljoint from the control arm. Installation is the reverse of removal, ensuring all fasteners are tightened to the torque values. If the balljoint has excessive play, the entire upper control arm must be replaced, as the balljoint was not available separately at the time of writing.