2004 Mazda3 2.0L LCA Replacement Problems

[kaleshnikov]

This is my first major (I consider this major) DIY upgrade I've done on my car, and that is to replace the passenger side lower control arm. Its been a pain, but I've been learning a lot. I had to jack up the engine carefully to get enough clearance, and I've placed the LCA in on the front and back bolts. However, I can't get the stupid ball joint pin to actually go into the steering knuckle. I've tried hammering with a dead hammer, using a jack, it still won't go in.

Here are pictures: http://imgur.com/a/Q4APx

I don't think I moved or messed up the axle/CV since when I put the wheel back on, it seems to fit fine.

Maybe I should just drop the car on the wheel and see if the weight of the car will push it in?

[ryan2.3]

get your jack and raise it under the ball joint to lift it up into the knuckle, you may need a second person to help guide the ball joint up into the knuckle while you lift. it should go in pretty easily

do not drop teh car on the wheel... if it misses, you may be screwed

[Como]

It actually just looks like your ball joint isn't set at the proper angle to 'get r in the hole'. The ball joint should fit into the steering knuckle with minimal resistance. Even just by tapping the bottom of the Lca with a soft hammer is enough. I've done this repair many times now. Passenger side is a bit of a PITA.