Ball Joint: Service and Repair

REMOVAL PROCEDURE
1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle.
2. Remove the control arm from the vehicle. Refer to LOWER CONTROL ARM REPLACEMENT.
3. Drill out three rivets or grind off the rivet heads which retain the front lower control arm ball stud.
4. Remove the front lower control arm ball stud from the control arm.

INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
1. Align the front lower control arm ball stud to the three holes in the lower control arm.

NOTICE: Always use the correct fastener in the proper location. When you replace a fastener, use ONLY the exact part number for that application. The manufacturer will call out those fasteners that require a replacement after removal. The manufacturer will also call out the fasteners that require thread lockers or thread sealant. UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, do not use supplemental coatings (paints, greases, or other corrosion inhibitors) on threaded fasteners or fastener joint interfaces. Generally, such coatings adversely affect the fastener torque and joint clamping force, and may damage the fastener. When you install fasteners, use the correct tightening sequence and specifications. Following these instructions can help you avoid damage to parts and systems.

2. Install three front lower control arm ball stud bolts facing in a downward position, and install the nuts.

Tighten
Tighten the front lower control arm ball stud mounting nuts to 68 Nm (50 ft. lbs.).

3. Install the control arm to frame. Refer to LOWER CONTROL ARM REPLACEMENT.
4. Lower the vehicle.