I had recently changed my axle and ran into some problems putting things back together. When i was trying to separate the LBJ from the lower arm i used a pickle fork which ripped the boots. Im now trying to bolt the castle nut back on but it still spins with the ball joint. What can i do to stop it from spinning so i can tighten it? should i replace with the boots on the ball joint?

 

Heres some pics of the joint and boot removed.

 

Replace the ball joint - it must have an intact seal.

 

I cant just replace the boot?

 

only way it itll do that is if the castle nut isnt on right or the threads are shot replace the ball joint ive done a hundred of these and that is what i can tell you