Diagnosis And Testing - Lower Ball Joint - Independent Front Suspension

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2011 RAM Pickup and 2011 RAM Cab & Chassis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Hoisting , Standard Procedure .
NOTE:
When using floor stands on aluminum control arms a wood block or similar should be placed between the stand and the control arm.
Place safety floor stands under both lower control arms as far outboard as possible. Lower the vehicle to allow the stands to support some or all of the vehicle weight.
Mount a dial indicator solidly to the topside of the lower control arm.
NOTE:
The dial indicator plunger must be perpendicular to the machined surface of the steering knuckle.
Position the indicator plunger against the bottom surface of the steering knuckle and then zero the dial indicator.
Position a pry bar under the tire assembly. Pry upwards on the tire assembly.
NOTE:
On the 4x4 replacement of the lower ball joint is not recommended. If the ball joint movement exceeds specifications, replacement of the lower control arm is necessary.
If the travel exceeds 0.5 mm (0.020 in.), replace the lower ball joint. For 4x2 , refer to BALL JOINT, Suspension, Lower , Removal .For 4x4 , refer to ARM, Lower Control , Removal .