Diagnosis And Testing - Lower Control Arm

Inspect the lower control arm for signs of damage from contact with the ground or road debris. If the lower control arm shows any sign of damage, look for distortion. Do not attempt to repair or straighten a broken or bent lower control arm. If damaged, the lower control arm stamping is serviced only as a complete component.

Inspect both lower control arm isolator bushings for severe deterioration and replace the lower control arm as required. Inspect the ball joint per the inspection procedure below and replace the lower control arm as required.

BALL JOINT INSPECTION 

Fig 1: Separating Ball Joint From Knuckle

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

1. Using (special tool #9360, Remover, Ball Joint) (1), separate the ball joint stud (2) from the knuckle (3).
2. After separating the ball joint from the knuckle, make sure that the ball joint is not excessively loose in the bore.
   Fig 2: Ball Joint Splines

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
   NOTE:

   It is normal for the ball joint splines (3) to be visible below the control arm mounting location (2). Approximately 3mm (0.12 in) (4) of splines will be visible on a functional ball joint.

3. Inspect the boot (1) for any tears or lubrication leaking out.
4. Inspect the bore for any cracks.
5. Check the splines of the ball joint for any signs of slippage.