if you are just removing the shocker then there is no need to touch the ball joints, just undo the 19mm clamp bolt, use a wedge to spread the hub carrier a little then a big pry bar to pull it down. don't undo the top mount until you have done this though.
if you are removing the hub carrier as well I find it easier to do the above first then lift the hub off the ball joint, then u won't need a ratchet strap