Ball Joint Inspection
Ball Joint Inspection
Tools Required
^ J8001 Dial Indicator
1. Raise and support the vehicle.
Important:
^ The vehicle must rest on a level surface.
^ The vehicle must be stable. Do not rock the vehicle on the floor stands.
^ The upper control arm bumper must not contact the frame.
2. Support the lower control arm with a floor stand or jack, as far outboard as possible.
3. Clean and inspect the ball joint seals for cuts or tears. If the ball joint seals are damaged, replace the ball joint. Refer to Lower Ball Joint Replacement or Upper Control Arm Replacement.
Important: If a seal is cut or torn, replace the ball joint.
4. Check the wheel bearing for looseness. If looseness in the wheel bearing is present,
5. Check the ball joints for horizontal looseness.
1. Position the J8001 against the lowest outboard point on the wheel rim.
2. Rock the wheel in and out while reading the dial indicator. This shows horizontal looseness in both joints.
3. The dial indicator reading should be no more than 2 mm (0.080 inch). If the reading is too high, check the lower ball joints for vertical looseness.
6. For 4WD vehicles, place a J8001 (1) against the spindle in order to show vertical movement.
Notice: Do not pry between the lower arm and the wheel drive shaft boot or in such a manner that the ball joint seal is contacted. Damage to the wheel drive shaft boot will result (4WD).
7. Pry between the lower control arm (2) and the outer bearing race (1) while reading the dial indicator. This shows vertical looseness in the lower ball joints. The lower ball joint may show some looseness.
8. If the dial indicator reading is more than 3.18 mm (0.125 inch), replace the lower ball joint.
9. If the lower ball joint is within specifications, and there is too much horizontal looseness, check the upper ball joint for wear.
0. Disconnect the upper ball joint from the steering knuckle.
1. If you find any looseness or can twist the upper ball joint stud with your fingers, replace the upper control arm.