Squeaky ball joint?

Hi all

Sorry - medium intelligence question...

The steering ballpoint on my front right has just developed a squeak. Not bad from the cabin, fairly upsetting when lying underneath. Will get it addressed asap but I have a couple of questions...

Is this sortable myself (medium DIY skills)

How long can I drive on this without causing much damage?

Cheers

Josh

I take it you are talking about the track rod that ties the two front swivel hubs together (runs behind the axle)

If so, it is fairly simple to DIY...one end is a fixed joint and the other is adjustable....it is easier to replace the whole track rod....

Done thusly....

(Can be done with wheels on and sitting on the ground - I prefer to lift and remove the wheels, makes it easier)

Loosen wheel nuts
Chock rear wheels
Lift and support front axle
Remove road wheels
Remove ball joint nuts
Either with a ball joint splitter or two large hammers, pop the ball joint out of the seat
Lay track rod on the ground
Lay new rod parallel to it and adjust to be the same length
Fit new rod in place and torque up the nuts correctly
Refit road wheels
Lower vehicle to ground
Grab a coffee and make an appointment to get the tracking checked (as this is always worth doing even though your best efforts to get the rod lengths the same)
Finish yer coffee
Enjoy!

Simple really