Front Suspension Lower Ball Joint

LOWER BALL JOINT

NOTE: If the ball joint is equipped with a lubrication fitting, grease the joint then road test the vehicle before performing test.

1. Raise the front of the vehicle. 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.
2. Mount a dial indicator solidly to the top side of the lower control arm.

NOTE: The dial indicator plunger must be perpendicular to the machined surface of the steering knuckle.

3. Position the indicator plunger against the bottom surface of the steering knuckle, and then zero the dial indicator.
4. Position a pry bar under the tire assembly. Pry upwards on the tire assembly.
5. If the travel exceeds 0.5 mm (0.020 in.), replace the lower ball joint Front Suspension Lower Ball Joint - Removal.