Upper

NOTE:
- Make sure the vehicle rests on a level surface.
- Raise the vehicle and support it with safety stands.
- The vehicle must be stable and should not rock on the floor stands.
- The upper control arm bumper must not contact the frame.

1. Wipe the ball joints clean and check the seals for cuts or tears.
- If a seal is cut or torn, the ball joint MUST be replaced.
2. Adjust the wheel bearings to specifications.





3. Check the ball joints for horizontal looseness.
- Position a dial indicator against the lowest outboard point on the wheel rim.
- Rock the wheel in and out while reading the dial indicator. This will show horizontal looseness in both joints.
- The dial indicator reading should be no more than 3.18 mm (0.125 inch). If the reading is too much, check the lower ball joints for vertical looseness.
4. Check the lower ball joints for wear.





- The lower ball joint is inspected for wear by sight. Wear is indicated by the position of the housing into which the grease fitting is threaded. This round housing projects 1.27 mm (0.050 inch) beyond the surface of the ball joint cover on a new, unworn joint. Normal wear will result in the surface of this housing retreating very slowly inward.
- After cleaning the surface, observe or scrape a scale, screwdriver or fingernail across the cover. If the round housing is flush or inside the cover surface, replace the ball joint.
5. If the lower ball joint is within specifications and horizontal looseness exceeds the limit, check the upper ball joint for wear.
- Disconnect the ball joint from the knuckle.
- If any looseness is found, or the stud can be twisted with your fingers, replace the ball joint.