Ball Joint Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Lincoln LS. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
The front suspension is shown in the following procedures. The inspection of the rear suspension upper ball joint is similar.
- Raise and support the vehicle.
- Prior to performing any inspection of the ball joints, inspect the front wheel bearings. For additional information, refer toWHEEL BEARING INSPECTION - FRONT .
- Position a safety stand beneath the front suspension lower arm (3079) or rear suspension lower arm to be tested.
- While an assistant pulls and pushes the top and bottom of the tire, observe the relative movement between the ball joint and the front suspension lower arm. Any movement at or exceeding the specification indicates a worn or damaged ball joint. Install a new spindle as necessary. For additional information, refer to WHEEL KNUCKLE .
- While an assistant pulls and pushes the top and bottom of the tire, observe the relative movement between the ball joint and the front suspension upper arm or rear suspension upper arm. Any movement at or exceeding the specification indicates a worn or damaged ball joint. Install a new front suspension upper arm as necessary. For additional information, refer to UPPER ARM - LEFT SIDE or UPPER ARM - RIGHT SIDE .
- Remove the safety stand. Lower the vehicle.