Ball Joint: Testing and Inspection

Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Inspection

Special Tools

J 8001 - Dial Indicator Set

Note:
* The vehicle must rest on a level surface
* The vehicle must be stable. DO NOT rock the vehicle on the floor.

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle Service and Repair.
2. Clean and inspect the ball joint seal for cuts or tears. If the ball joint seal is damaged, replace the ball joint or lower control arm as applicable for this vehicle.




3. Install the J 8001 - dial indicator , to measure the vertical lash of the ball joint.

Caution: Do not pry in such a way that the ball joint seal is contacted. Damage to the seal may result.

4. Gently lift or pry between the knuckle and the lower control arm to induce ball joint movement, record the measurement
5. If dial indicator is reading more than 0.5 mm (0.02 in) , replace the ball joint or lower control arm as applicable for this vehicle.