Changing Ball Joints, Hard?

[custom10nut]

With the proper tools, how hard is it to change the ball joints on a 70 1/2 ton two wheel drive? My son seems to think it'll be too hard. I have access to a lift and all the specialty tools, so I dont have to buy a bunch of tools I'll only use once. My truck is not a rust belt truck and hasnt seen a winter road for about 20 years so frozen bolts shouldn't be a problem. Thanks in advance

[Jason Banks]

Ball joints are not hard.

[Hack71]

Not too tough, I found that its a good time to change all the steering component's if you can, tie rod ends, pitman arm, idler arm, then an alignment.

[hugger6933]

I would put the ball joint change on the difficulty scale about a 3 to 4. Most part stores will loan/rent you a ball joint press for the bottom that makes it so much easier. If you have a die grinder and a air chisel the top are no problem either. I'm not saying you HAVE to have those air tools but it simplifies the process if you do.

[franken]

If memory serves, uppers are riveted in and need to have the rivets ground off. Easy assuming you have a grinding tool.
Uppers can be changed w/ the wheels on the ground, but the wheel/tire get in the way.
Lowers are pressed in and can be beat out with a hammer.
Lowers are under spring pressure so get the ducks lined up.
The only special tool needed is a separator, or pickle fork, and it may not be needed if bashing the mating point works.