Moog replacement Ball joint question

[Jimmer]

I bought a couple replacement moog upper ball joints for my 2000 Dak R/T QC. I had a serious problem getting the dust boot to even fit on the joint case. I took the joints to a local shop and asked if they could get this dang thing to fit.

To make a long story short he was able to seat one, the other he ripped. Are these boots supposed to be so tight? Is there a special tool that is needed to install this boot properly. If there is a special tool, should the tech have know about it?

I'm surprised that the installation instructions that Moog supplied with the joint didn't detail this point at all.

Any thoughts?

:help:

[Randy_W]

I warm mine with a heat gun or hair dryer. ;)

[FastDak47]

I had a hard time with mine also. I worked with them for two hours and finally figured out heating them really helped. I know its a pain in the a$$, but it is worth it in the long run. Good luck, Jeff

[Jimmer]

Sorry it took so long to update this.

I spoke with a tech desk guy at Moog and he told me that heat not advisable. Said it will damage the boot. Mucho lube it the key.

I used a 1 3/8 socket (cheap from Ace Hardware) and a large C clamp. I then sprayed the boot and the joint liberally with WD40. That was it!

The boot slipped right into place, no problem.

Hope that this helps.