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Home >> GMC >> 2003 >> Safari Van Cargo, AWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 1119 (Suspension System General Diagnosis) >> Diagnostic Information and Procedures >> Ball Joint Inspection

Ball Joint Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Aztek and 2004 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Ball Joint Inspection

Step Action Values Yes No
1 Did you review the General Description and perform the necessary inspections? - Go to Step 2  Go to Symptoms - Suspension General Diagnosis 
2
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Clean the ball joint and inspect the seal for damage.
Is the ball joint seal damaged?
- Go to Step 6  Go to Step 3 
3 Check the wheel bearing for looseness. Refer to Wheel Bearings Diagnosis  in Suspension General Diagnosis.
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 7  Go to Step 4 
4
IMPORTANT: Remove tension from the ball joints.
Check the ball joint for horizontal looseness using the following procedure:
  1. Position the J 8001  Dial Indicator against the lowest outboard point of the wheel rim.
  2. Rock the wheel in and out while reading the dial indicator.
Does the dial indicator measure greater than the specified value?
3.18 mm (0.125 in) Go to Step 6  Go to Step 5 
5
IMPORTANT: Remove tension from the ball joints.
Check the ball joint for vertical looseness using the following procedure:
  1. Install the J 8001  .
  2. Move the ball joint up and down while reading the dial indicator.
Does the dial indicator measure greater than the specified value?
3.18 mm (0.125 in) Go to Step 6  Go to Step 7 
6 Replace the ball joint. Refer to Lower Ball Joint Replacement in Front Suspension or Rear Axle Lower Control Arm Replacement (All Wheel Drive) in Rear Suspension.
Did you complete the repair?
- Go to Step 7  -
7 Operate the system in order to verify the repair.
Did you correct the condition?
- System OK Go to Step 2