Hey folks,

Quick question about ball joints. I am trying to replace the ball joint on my upper control arms. It seems like the easiest thing I could do is buy replacement upper control arms but since money is tight and I am handy with tools, I'd rather save a few bucks. My search only leads to discussion about the lower ball joint on the knuckle.

Are the lower and upper ball joints the same?
Where can I find good quality ball joints (oem quality).

Any and all help is appreciated. Thanks.

Additional information/ background
'03 350z Touring Edition. Completely stock with no intention of performing any modifications.The reason I am attempting to replace this part is that there is a steering clunk when turning, U-turns especially. I am able to replicate this noise when parked. With someone in the car, I placed my hand on the control arm and located the source of the clunk (with the person in the car turning the wheel). The upper control arm would creak and clunk. Would love to keep all parts oem.

 

OEM UCA balljoints are not removable, so you're stuck buying a new arm/w joint.

The lower is serviceable, but there is no OEM option, you have to buy the whole knuckle to get a new OEM balljoint.

There is a big thread down a little way all about lower ball joints.

You should get it in the air and verify before you assume its the upper balljoint.

 

Thank you for the clear and concise answer to my question. I definitely stumbled upon that thread but agai was searching for the upper control arm.