I didn't need any specialty tools to install the front lower ball joints.

Used a cold chisel and hammer to slowly pry it out then used the old bolts to draw it back in. Torqued the new bolts to spec with some blue loctite on the threads. Took maybe 5-10 minutes total (of course being off the car probably made it easier)

 

I didn't need any specialty tools to install the front lower ball joints.

Used a cold chisel and hammer to slowly pry it out then used the old bolts to draw it back in. Torqued the new bolts to spec with some blue loctite on the threads. Took maybe 5-10 minutes total (of course being off the car probably made it easier)

I did the same but with the steering knuckle still on the car. Easy peasy, no issues at all.

 

Using the bolts is risky to draw back in by themselves.
What I do is tighten the bolts just so there's tension and then tap the ball joint in with a soft blow, tighten the bolts more and tap again. This way you don't risk breaking an ear of the ball joint.

 

DIY Ball Joint Installation Tool

I just installed ball joints on my S60 and built this tool to hammer them in. They went in super easy, the secret is to freeze them overnight, this shrinks them just enough to make installation 50% easier :). Parts: 2" PVC Schedule 40 2" PVC Cap

www.matthewsvolvosite.com

 

You don't need it. Remove them like broinkrist said but carefully so ya don't beat up the edges of the receiving socket. Clean up the socket with sand paper or similar. Apply a tiny bit of never seize into the socket. Use a driver like a piece of pipe to fit nicely over the new ball joint and not harm the rubber boot. It helps to put the new joints in the freezer to shrink them a tiny bit.I wouldn't recommend using the bolts to draw them in.If it cocks a bit,you are in trouble.

 

Cool beans - thanks all