I have a 2000 Windstar LX. The ball joint that is spot welded to the side of the liftgate where the liftgate support device (strut, support arm) attaches has rusted and broke off. I have found other posts that mention this same problem on other Ford vehicles so I am guessing there is a solution / repair.....but what is it? Can I just buy the ball joint and install it myself? Do I drill out the old weld and install a bolt-on ball joint? Does the bracket have to be replaced? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

Go to parts store and see what equipment comes with new lift support, it may come with all you need to install?

I have replaced a lift support in the past, it is just the support, nothing else comes with it. The ball joint is spot welded on a bracket that is welded to the liftgate. In my research, I read where there was a problem with brackets bending on the 90's Explorer's and one other posting on broken ball joint. I might end up having to be creative! Thanks for the response.