Front Ball Joint Inspection

Special Tools 

GE-8001  Dial Indicator Set

Equivalent regional tools: Special Tools 

NOTE:
• 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. Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
2. Clean and inspect the ball joint seals for cuts or tears. If the lower ball joint seals are damaged, replace the affected component.
   • Front Lower Control Front Link Replacement (RWD) , or Front Lower Control Front Link Replacement (AWD)
   • Front Lower Control Rear Link Replacement (RWD) , or Front Lower Control Rear Link Replacement (AWD)
   • Steering Knuckle Replacement (RWD) , or Steering Knuckle Replacement (AWD, with J55) , or Steering Knuckle Replacement (AWD, with JE5)

3. Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

   NOTE:

   The setup shown is typical and can be applied to all suspension configurations.

   Install the base (2) of the GE-8001  Dial Indicator Set, or suitable dial indicator to the front lower control link (3).

4. Install the dial indicator of the GE-8001  Dial Indicator Set with the contact point (1) positioned at the steering knuckle.
CAUTION:

When working around ball joints, visually inspect the ball joint boots before and after service work is performed to ensure no damage has occurred. If damage to the boot is observed, the ball joint must be replaced.

5. Lift the front lower control link (3) toward the steering knuckle and zero the dial indicator.
6. Pull down on the front lower control link (3) and record the dial indicator reading.
7. If the dial indicator reading is more than 0.50 mm (0.020 in), replace the affected component.
   • Front Lower Control Front Link Replacement (RWD) , or Front Lower Control Front Link Replacement (AWD)
   • Front Lower Control Rear Link Replacement (RWD) , or Front Lower Control Rear Link Replacement (AWD)
   • Steering Knuckle Replacement (RWD) , or Steering Knuckle Replacement (AWD, with J55) , or Steering Knuckle Replacement (AWD, with JE5)
8. Repeat steps 3 - 7 for the remaining ball joints.
9. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.