Question: I've seen the balljoint removal tool that puts pressure on the BJ studs. Is it possible to remove the BJ's from the knuckle using a pickle fork, or do I need the spreader tool?
If your not reusing the ball joint then yes. But another way is to rap with a hammer on the side of the spindle boss after loosening the stud nut. I would leave the nut on the stud to keep it from dropping when it comes loose. By the way keep a jack under the lower control arm because of the torsion bar tension on that arm. If you are going to rebush the lower arm then you will need to take the torsion bar out. Also penetrating oil is your friend I happen to like PB Blaster which is widely available.
