This is a picture of when I did the 98. If you pull this out as 1 piece, you'll have unrestricted access to the lower ball joint when you swap it out. This is the same process I've used on all 3 trucks, it simplifies things in my opinion

 

Obviuosly! lol

 

you wouldnt believe some people on here in the past complaining about not having space then say they don't want to pull the axle out

 

ok great news..... i was able to tear it apart today and replace that lower driver side ball joint and NO MORE squeaking at all!! simple as loaning the press poppin out the ball joint then pressed in the new one. so far so good... drives good & everything seems to be ok for now. thank u guys for your help with this much appreciated.

those of you that have the same annoying squeak.. heres your answer to the problem hope u get urs fixed as well.

 

Thanks doing mine Saturday

 

saved yourself a few bucks not replacing the entire control arm huh? Lol, good to hear.

 

yeah more then just a few bucks saved. glad i came on here for help before doing as the shop manuals said. thanks a lot, ur is help much appreciated

 

No problem

 

It's the lower ball joint, just did mine on Sunday, same exact noise

 

Yes, we've established that on the first page.