Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Inspection

Special Tools 

J 8001  Dial Indicator

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.
• The wheel and tire is shown removed for clarity.
1. Raise and support the vehicle. Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle
2. Clean and inspect the front lower control arm ball stud seal for cuts or tears. If the front lower control arm ball stud seal is damaged, replace the front lower control arm ball stud. Front Lower Control Arm Ball Stud Replacement
3. Support the front lower control arm with a floor stand as far outboard as possible and raise the suspension until the front lower control arm moves 25 mm (1 in).

4. Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

   Install the base (2) of the J 8001  Dial Indicator, or equivalent, to the front lower control arm (1) as shown.

5. Install the contact point of the J 8001  Dial Indicator (4), or equivalent to the front lower control arm ball stud (3) as shown.
CAUTION:

Do not pry in such a way that the ball joint seal is contacted. Damage to the seal may result.

6. Lift the steering knuckle alternately to and from the front lower control arm and record the total sweep of the dial indicator.
7. If the dial indicator reading is more than 0.50 mm (0.020 in), replace the front lower control arm ball stud. Front Lower Control Arm Ball Stud Replacement
8. Remove the J 8001  Dial Indicator from the vehicle.
9. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.