Ball Joint Inspection (Upper Ball Joint)

Ball Joint Inspection (Upper Ball Joint)

Special Tools

J 8001 Dial Indicator Set





Important:
* The vehicle must rest on a level surface.

* The vehicle must be stable. Do not rock the vehicle on the floor stands.


1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle (Service and Repair) .
2. Clean and inspect the ball joint seals for cuts or tears. If the ball joint seals are damaged, replace the ball joint. Refer to Upper Control Arm Replacement (2WD, Z85, ZQ8) ()Upper Control Arm Replacement (4WD, 2WD Z71) (Service and Repair) .
3. Support the lower control arm with a floor stand as far outboard as possible and raise the suspension to just below ride height.
4. Install J 8001, or suitable dial indicator in a way to measure the vertical lash in the ball joint.

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).

5. Apply downward force to the upper control arm and zero the indicator.
6. Apply upward force to the upper control arm and check the dial indicator.
7. If the dial indicator reading is more than 0.15 mm (0.006 in), replace the upper control arm. Refer to Upper Control Arm Replacement (2WD, Z85, ZQ8) ()Upper Control Arm Replacement (4WD, 2WD Z71) (Service and Repair) .