21 replies to this topic

[victor ludorum]

I'll be doing the rubber cones on my 2000 mpi this weekend and I currently don't have a splitting tool. I want to try the old hammer technique before investing. Am I making a big mistake or is there something I should be avoiding?

[MiniMadRacer]

The hammers do work, but it makes hard work of it in my opinion... if you do use the hammer methods make sure you wear eye protection...

[slidehammer]

I always use a splitter, there isn't much space to swing 2 hammers and I always think it a bit brutal.

[GraemeC]

Do you need one? - No

Would I recommend one? - Yes!

 

As above - the hammer method works but if you have not done it before it can be more difficult than you think.  I would at least buy a splitter and have it on hand - then once you start the job try the hammer method, if it works you can return the splitter, if it doesn't then you haven't held yourself up for not having the tools.

[sonscar]

I would advise a scissor type splitter NOT a fork type,much more controllable and elegant.Steve..

[dyshipfakta]

Yes in my opinion. And a pincer type the forks are crap

[MiniMadRacer]

I have both types, the fork is ok if you use a good one.. I have a very long snap on one, that lets me get well away from the wing to whack the end... dont buy a cheap fork one, the "tines" tend to widen rather than lift and before you know it you have run out of fork travel.. you can then gtee when you whack the fork to close up the "tines" again it will snap one of them clean off... been there done that...also the fork tool does have a correct way up, so make sure you use it in the correct orientation if you go down that route

[gazza82]

I would advise a scissor type splitter NOT a fork type,much more controllable and elegant.Steve..

I'll agree with this having used one to split a joint that hadn't been touched since the mid 70s! Just don't go mad tighten it a small bit at a time and give it a few seconds between each turn .. and keep your fingers away! When they go, they go!

[gazza82]

I would advise a scissor type splitter NOT a fork type,much more controllable and elegant.Steve..

I'll agree with this having used one to split a joint that hadn't been touched since the mid 70s! Just don't go mad tighten it a small bit at a time and give it a few seconds between each turn .. and keep your fingers away! When they go, they go!

[MiniMadRacer]

I agree with gazza on tightening and leaving it a while.. on a different tack ... when I remove a flywheel I tighten the puller and leave it.... then tighten it and leave it.. many times I have tightened one, gone to have my dinner and heard a bang, as the taper lets go...or leave it over night and find in the morning the flywheel is lying on the floor

[GT Jimmy]

Never, ever have I separated ball joints with 2 hammers, it's a lie it can be done lol. A good quality scissor type splitter every time

[cal844]

I've never used the two hammer method or the scissor type splitter. Fork type for me, every time... Don't buy cheap though

[Ethel]

You don't need to split the ball joint to replace the cone, but it's a tool you will need sooner or later.

[Tornado99]

I use a splitter sourced on-line for around $15, so not a big expense. It was recommended to me to use a penetrant oil or WD40 while using the tool as it helps release the joint vacuum effect. Also, do not just torque away on the splitter, as you should give the ball joint threaded end a good knock with a hammer (protect thread by placing the nut on first). This sets up vibration and gives it the last bit a force above what splitter applies. Much less stress on the tool and safer when it goes bang!

[Spider]

Hammers !

All those bruise marks on the eye of the Arms ? YUK !!!

And when it's a tight one, you only need to hammer harder and harder until you realise it's not going to come apart anyway.

 

I've never seen this method suggested in any workshop manual.