Buy or Rent Ball Joint Removal/Press?

[gmartin1215]

Asking this forum since lifted vehicles are more than likely out on the trail...
Recently, I replaced a lower ball joint. I got the Loan-a-tool from Autozone for the basic press and master kit. The tool made the job easier to do than without it!
With the Loan-a-tool from Autozone, you have the option to return to get the deposit back or just keep it.
Right now, I am on the fence about keeping the tool. The guy at Autozone said he keeps one for his trail rig, which I thought may be a good idea. However, I wonder how often I would find myself in the situation out in the field where I would need this tool. The downside is I think this tool will go mostly unused.

Does anyone here have or is keeping their ball joint press kit? If so, what are your reasons for keeping the tool?

 

[gooffeyguy]

How much is the rental one compared to a new, never used as a loaner one?

I don't have a lifted suspension or really go off roading much, but I own the tool. I have multiple vehicles I can/will use it on though

 

[OR VietVet]

Amount of vehicles and how aggressive is it driven where you MAY need on the trail. I had a lifted 73 Blazer that I abused many times and never needed that tool. Have used at home though when I did a thorough after run inspection. The price of rental, buy the used tool from them and buying new needs to be considered.

 

[tom3]

I rented/borrowed one of those and kept it. Real handy for lots of stuff, clamp it in the vise, change u-joints etc. and the round spacers come in handy too.

 

[gmartin1215]

I got two kits from Autozone...
The basic press kit and the master kit that has all the different size spacers and can be used for U-joints, too.
The deposit for both these kits is $180; they are OEM Tools brand.
The basic press kit has been used, but it is in good shape. Master kit I am the first to use (new store).

 

[George B]

I have a base kit I bought from Harbor Freight 20 years ago and have used it often since then. It works well for me.