Mini-bump.

 

Is it possible to put a ball joint back in the car with the control arm still in place?

Mini-bump.

 

Is it possible to put a ball joint back in the car with the control arm still in place?

 

why would you?

just pull the lower arm out

Mini-bump.

 

Is it possible to put a ball joint back in the car with the control arm still in place?

 

Nope, need to take it out, get some steel tubing with a thick wall (ask a steel merchant for offcuts) to seat the ball joint in around its base. and press it into the lca, then the steering arm. I used a supershit press I bought for $120. Don't over do it, or you will destroy the bj.

 

Also, If you can, brush on some thick paint like por15 in the BJ hole (for a good mechanical jam) and use a circlip for added security, even if it doesn't come with one.