Ball Joint Inspection (Lower Ball Joint)
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado, and 2003 GMC Sierra. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Tools Required
- J 8001: Dial Indicator Set
- Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
- With the wheel and tire on the vehicle, lift the suspension corner by hand to determine if any looseness is present. If vertical free play is experienced proceed with the following instructions.
- Remove the wheel and tire. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
- Clean and inspect the ball joint seals for cuts or tears. If the ball joint seals are damaged, replace the ball joint. Refer to Lower Ball Joint Replacement (Coil Spring Suspension) or Lower Ball Joint Replacement (Torsion Bar Suspension) in Front Suspension.
- Install and position the dial indicator from J 8001 against the end of the ball joint.
- Gently lift or pry the suspension upward then let it settle.
- The dial indicator reading should be no more than 2 mm (0.079 in). If the reading is out of specification, replace the ball joint.
IMPORTANT:
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).