Ball Joint: Testing and Inspection

Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Inspection

Special Tools

J-8001 - Dial Indicator

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools Front Suspension.

Note:

* The vehicle must rest on a level surface

* The vehicle must be stable. DO NOT rock the vehicle on the floor stand.

* This procedure was developed for checking the vertical movement of the upper ball joint. If there is movement in the horizontal or any other direction greater than the below specification, replace the upper control arm ball joint or upper control arm as applicable for this vehicle.

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 upper control arm as applicable for this vehicle.

3. Support the lower control arm with a floor stand as far outboard as possible and raise the suspension until the lower control arm moves 25 mm (1 in).





4. Install J-8001 - dial indicator, to measure the vertical lash in the ball joint.

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

5. Apply downward force to the upper control arm and zero the dial indicator.

6. Apply upward force to the upper control arm and check the dial indicator. Record the measurement

7. If dial indicator reading is more than 0.5 mm (0.02 in), replace the ball joint or upper control arm as applicable for this vehicle.