How to Install a Self-Locking Nut on a Ball Joint with a Tapered Stud

Problems Tightening Self-Locking Nut

When installing the self-locking nut on a ball joint with a tapered stud, it can be difficult to get the nut properly tightened. Featuring two stakes at the top, overcoming resistance in the tight space of the suspension assembly is a challenge. This can be an issue with MOOG® lower ball joints like the K8607T for the 1999-2019 Ford F-250/F-350 Super Duty and the K500141 for the 2005-2019 Ford F-450/F-550 Super Duty.

To get the nut properly tightened, there are two different methods that can be employed – using a jack or using the old ball joint hardware.

Tightening Nut Using a Jack

STEP 1

Place jack under knuckle.

STEP 2

Jack knuckle up until taper engages with axle.

STEP 3

Tighten to the first toque specification in the reassembly procedure.

STEP 4

Lower jack and proceed with reassembly procedure to install components.

Tightening Nut Using Old Ball Joint Hardware

STEP 1

Install old nut.

STEP 2

Tighten to the first torque specification in the reassembly procedure.

STEP 3

Remove old nut.

STEP 4

Install new nut.

STEP 5

Tighten the new nut to the first torque specification in the reassembly procedure.

STEP 6

Continue with reassembly procedure to install components.

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