METALCLOAK
Reference: MC1920
Service parts
MetalCloak Upper Baller Joint Rebuild Kit, Jeep Wrangler JK and TJ/LJ
The complete set of wear parts for two upper MetalCloak Baller Joints — new spindles, both races, composite bushings, seals, wave springs and hardware. Two of every component, so both sides are rebuilt in one go. Service without removing the axle, about 1 hour. Fits the Wrangler TJ/LJ 1997–2006 and JK 2007–2018. For MetalCloak joints only, not factory ball joints.
MetalCloak Upper Baller Joint Rebuild Kit, Jeep Wrangler JK and TJ/LJ
The whole idea behind the Baller Joints is that you do not throw them away. A factory joint with play in it is only good for replacement; this one is taken up with a wrench, and when the wearing parts finally do go after years of use, you replace those rather than the whole joint.
This kit is the complete set of wear parts for two upper joints: new spindles, both races, composite bushings, seals, wave springs and the small hardware. MetalCloak designed it for service without taking the axle off the vehicle.
VEHICLE Wrangler TJ/LJ 1997–2006 Wrangler JK 2007–2018 | CONTENTS A set for two upper joints | TIME approx. 1 h, no modification |
⚠ This is a service part for MetalCloak joints
The kit fits MetalCloak Baller Joints only — not factory ball joints and not other brands. If your vehicle still has its original joints, this kit does nothing for you; what you need is a Baller Joints set, which we stock in two versions.
It is also the UPPER joint kit. The lower joints have their own rebuild kit under a different part number.
Key benefits
- A set for both sides – every component comes in twos. You rebuild both upper joints in one go with nothing else to buy.
- New spindles, not just seals – you replace the part that actually wears, not only the part that leaks.
- Both races included – spherical and bearing. They are what decides whether the original steering precision comes back after the rebuild.
- Service without removing the axle – MetalCloak rates the work as easy and allows about an hour.
- A fraction of the cost of a new set of joints – which is exactly why you buy Baller Joints instead of factory ones.
- Fits both JK and TJ/LJ – the same kit covers both generations.
 | When a rebuild is due
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What's in the kit
- 2 × upper ball joint spindle
- 2 × spherical race
- 2 × bearing race
- 2 × O-ring
- 2 × rod wiper
- 2 × composite bushing
- 2 × wave spring
- 2 × plastic washer
- 2 × castle nut
- 2 × cotter pin
Technical data
- Application: MetalCloak Baller Joints, upper
- Vehicles: Jeep Wrangler TJ/LJ 1997–2006 and Jeep Wrangler JK 2007–2018
- Contents: a set for two joints (both sides)
- Installation difficulty: easy
- Time to install: approx. 1 hour
- Body modification: none
- Service without removing the axle: yes
- Manufacturer's instructions: none provided
- Shipping weight: approx. 1.36 kg
- Country of manufacture: USA
Who it is for
For Baller Joint owners who have put the miles in — and for the workshops that service them. It is also worth having on the shelf before a long trip if the joints already have a few seasons on them: with adjustable preload the play usually comes out with a wrench, but when it stops doing so, it is better to have the parts to hand than to wait for a shipment from the other side of the Atlantic.
Installation notes
MetalCloak rates the work as easy and allows about an hour, with no modification to the vehicle and no need to remove the axle. No written instructions are supplied with this kit — the manufacturer assumes the rebuild is done by someone familiar with how these joints are built.
After any work on the steering and suspension an alignment is mandatory. Szekla4x4.pl is an authorised MetalCloak dealer with a workshop specialising in off-road suspension — we will rebuild the joints, set the preload and do the alignment.
Why it is worth it
- A joint you rebuild instead of a joint you replace — that is the whole difference between Baller Joints and factory ones.
- A set for both sides in one box, with no picking parts individually.
- A rebuild costs a fraction of a new set of joints.
Not sure whether your joints still just need adjusting, or a rebuild? Get in touch, or bring the vehicle in and we will check.
Frequently asked questions
Does it fit factory ball joints?
No. It is a service part for MetalCloak Baller Joints only.
Is this the upper or the lower joint kit?
The upper. The lower joints have a separate rebuild kit.
How many joints does one kit cover?
Two — every component comes in twos, so both sides are rebuilt in one go.
Does the axle have to come off?
No. MetalCloak designed this kit for in-vehicle service and allows about an hour for it.
Does it fit both TJ and JK?
Yes. MetalCloak lists compatibility with the Wrangler TJ/LJ 1997–2006 and the JK 2007–2018.
Are installation instructions provided?
MetalCloak does not supply written instructions with this kit. If you have questions we will help — or do the rebuild in our workshop.
