Ball Joint Boot Inspection/Replacement

Special Tools Required 

Bearing Driver Attachment, 40 07GAF-SE00200

1. Check the ball joint boot for weakness, damage, cracks, and grease leaks.
   NOTE:

   • If the ball joint boot is damaged with grease leaks, replace the lower arm and lower ball joint (see LOWER ARM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
   • If the ball joint boot is soft and cracked without grease leaks, go to step 2. Replace the appropriate ball joint boot.
2. Remove the lower arm (see LOWER ARM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).
3. Remove the boot.
4. Pack the interior and lip (A) of a new boot with grease. Keep the grease off of the boot-to-lower arm mating surfaces (B).
   Fig 1: Identifying Boot-To-Lower Arm Mating Surfaces

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
5. Wipe the grease off the tapered portion of the ball joint pin (C), and pack fresh grease into the base (D). Do not let dirt or other foreign materials get into the boot.
6. Install the boot on the ball joint, then squeeze it gently to force out any air.
7. Press the boot with the bearing driver attachment until the bottom seats (A) on the lower arm all the way around.
   Fig 2: Pressing Boot With Bearing Driver Attachment

   Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
8. After installing a boot, wipe any grease off the exposed portion of the ball joint pin.
9. Install the lower arm (see LOWER ARM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION ).