is a ball joint hard to replace?

 

If you don't have the tools (often you need a speal pry bar and such) its a nasty job. Its also one of those many jobs that is "pretty straightforward the second time you do it," but a trial the first time.

I think its one of those things that its best to let a shop replace anyway, Safety critical. I did them 35 years ago, but would not do my own anymore.

 

Depends on how lucky you are...
They are pressed into the control arm. Lowers aren't too bad. But it is a long process.
Basically you have take the knuckle off. Which holds the spring in and compressed.

 

What are you replacing ball joints on? some cars are harder than others.

 

Assuming you are dealing with a 4th gen Camaro. The job is not too difficult if you have the proper tools. The bottom ball joint is pressed in the steering knuckle and requires a special tool, similar to a heavy duty C clamp, to press the old joint out and press the new joint in. The top joint is riveted in place. The rivets need to be drilled out to relase the joint. The new joint is bolted in place instaed of being riveted. If you want to do the job, you should invest in a repair manual, as you could get hurt or damage the car if you don't take proper precautions.