Upper A-arm removal problem

[theman1990]

So I'm trying to remove my upper A-arms and I've hit a snag. I used the expansion type joint separator on the first one w/o a hitch, came off with some good pressure just like everyone elses. Well, on to the second one and the TOOL EXPLODED!! Forged separator popped in three places!! So I took it back to the store and exchanged it for another one, the last one they had, and IT EXPLODED TOO!!!!

Now what?? How do i get it off??

ALSO when the 2nd one exploded it ripped a nice hole in the rubber boot, too!!

If it wasn't for bad luck...

 

[RON98]

quick picture would help.

sometimes they lend out cheap tools. snapon vs no name makes a big difference

 

[theman1990]

Hmmm... I bought them both (no name) from Harbor Freight, but they ARE forged!! I dunno....

 

[Miner]

Hmmm... I bought them both (no name) from Harbor Freight, but they ARE forged!! I dunno....

Sounds like the problem. Harbor Freight, in my experience, has good stuff at great prices, but their tools then to be very inconsistent. I've had to return stuff 2 or 3 times until I get the 'good one of the batch.' Then it lasts forever.

Miner

 

[RON98]

lol HF.

its forged with recycled bamboo and left over fish heads. :biggrin:

their stuff is junk esp the gear pullers that take real stress.

i broke my HF 3 claw gear puller too. I was lucky that the exploding fragments didn't hit me in the face or the vehicle i was working on.

they make great stuff that are not load bearing. i like their socket kits, screw drivers but when it comes to serious business, i go snap on.

i would recommend returning it since obviously that junk wont work and going to autozone and ask for a free rent a tool. im not sure if the quality is any better.

 

[theman1990]

Yah I tried autozone 1st, but they didn't even CARRY that... They kept insisting pickle fork was just fine...

 

[RON98]

shoot me a picture, i'll rack my brain for you.

btw great job on the valve cover, its "bitching".

 

[swerve2007]

yeah, hf stuff is as crappy as it comes- they are great disposable tools as long as they don't poke your eyes out@!