Bad ball joint? Easy to replace?

[closhedbb]

I have a 2000 XJ which I have put through the ringer, and now there is a very bad sounding metallic clunk in the front suspension every time I turn the vehicle, but most especially at low speeds where the turning is sharper. The steering has also gotten very mushy. From what I've been able to learn for myself, this is most likely a bad ball joint. But I am not sure how difficult it would be to replace the ball joint, or what to look for to make sure this is the problem or not.

If anyone could give me a good way to determine whether or not the ball joint is the culpret, that would be great. And I would also like to know if replacing it is something your average weekend mechanic can do.

Thanks!

-Brian

 

[KToy]

ball joint or a ujoint. at low speeds it might be a ujoint depends i guess.

grease the whole front end and then torque it all down. and then see if the noise returns. if it does then balljoints are a PITA if you ask me but not the hardest thing to do.

 

[closhedbb]

Thanks! I'll definitely do that ASAP.

 

[waynehartwig]

Check the wheel bearing hub, too.... Those are pretty common....