1961 cadillac Rear Ball Joint or as the manual calls it the Spherical Joint

[Jack Miller CLC# 24441]

Hi All,

Question. I was looking at my original Spherical joint and I was wondering how long they last? My car is a 1961 and I have no idea what happens when they fail. I am hoping that it doesn't fail like a front ball joint. I also was curious how big of a job is it to change. Is it something I can do in my garage?
Can I get some clues please?

Thanks
Jack

[Dan LeBlanc]

Hi Jack

I've been contemplating the same thing.  I haven't done it yet, but it doesn't seem to be that bad of a job.  One would think the rear end would wander if it was on its way out.

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

Hi Jack,

The Ball Joint is easily replaceable in the driveway, or Garage, as I did the same in my '60 CDV.

All you need to do is jack up the car, place Jackstands under the Chassis, and also support the rear axle housing as you remove the top Arm.

It is easier to unbolt the front mounts and "crack" the taper at the ball, and remove the component as a unit.

Then, on the bench, drill out the rivets, and bolt in the new one.

Bruce.

PS.  Make note of any shims.

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

Drill out the heads, with a small drill but not all the way through, then use a larger drill, making sure you don't hit the actual frame, then with a Cold Chisel, knock off the heads, and then with a punch, punch out the sheared rivets.

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

Clean up the piece, then simply replace the new joint, and put everything back.

If the front Bushings are also worn out, now is the time to replace those as well.

Bruce.

[Jack Miller CLC# 24441]

When I go to the parts store, is this the same as a front lower ball joint or is it a part of its own?

Thanks
jack

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

It is a totally different part.

The Front Joint is Cast Steel, and the holes are spaced differently.

I have pictured the front and rear joints   The differences are slight.

Bruce.

[Bob S]

Hi All,
Where can you find the rear ball joint and bushings at a reasonable price?
Thanks
Bob

[Jack Miller CLC# 24441]

Clean up the piece, then simply replace the new joint, and put everything back.

If the front Bushings are also worn out, now is the time to replace those as well.

Bruce.

Hi Bruce,

Thanks,
I had the lower front ball joints done last summer. Now I have to locate the rear joint.
Thanks for the info & pix.

Thanks
Jack