Ball Joint Checking
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Grand Am, 2002 Oldsmobile Alero, and 2002 Chevrolet Malibu. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Raise and support vehicle. Support lower control arm with jack stand, as far outboard as possible, near lower ball joint. Wipe ball joint clean. Inspect ball joint seals for cracks or tears. Replace ball joint if seal is damaged.
- Check Ball Joint For Horizontal Looseness: Position Dial Indicator (J-8001) against lowest outboard point on wheel rim. Move wheel in and out using rocking motion. Dial indicator reading should be no more than .125" (3.18 mm). If reading is too high, check ball joint for vertical looseness.
- Check Ball Joint For Vertical Looseness: Check ball joint by observing position of housing. On new ball joint, round housing projects .050" (1.27 mm) beyond surface of ball joint cover. If round housing is flush with (or inside of) cover surface, replace ball joint. Pry between lower control arm and steering knuckle while reading dial indicator. If dial indicator reading is more than .125" (3.18 mm), replace lower control arm.