Ball joint incident
 

Howdy, I’m inquiring about our 2001 towncar. I’ve posted on other forums for my car with not much luck.
Recently me and my son were working on the upper and lower ball joint on the driver side. After finishing up the lower ball joint with a press and guiding the jack up into place to put the upper in the knuckle. My son put the square headed pinch bolt in and began hammering. It’s on me for not checking to make sure it was correct before he used his mallet to Wack it in. The problem is the ball joint wasn’t fully within the knuckle and the pinch bolt is now pressed against the wide part of the upper. The bolt seams unmovable and the threads are crushed on the side facing out. I’m looking for any suggestions people are willing to give. Best plan I have now is taking the ball joint press and driving it farther down so the bolt can be removed. Just worried about the press slipping and causing damage.

Thanks so much

Mr.G


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