Front Ball Joint Inspection

Special Tools 

J-8001  Dial Indicator Set

Equivalent regional tools: Special Tools

Fig 1: Measuring Vertical Ball Joint Lash
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY
NOTE:
• The vehicle must rest on a level surface.
• The vehicle must be stable. Do not rock the vehicle on the floor stands.
• This procedure was developed for checking the vertical movement of the front lower control link ball joints. If there is movement in the horizontal or any other direction greater than the below specification, replace the front lower control links as necessary.
1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle (ATS)Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle (ATS-V)
2. Clean and inspect the ball joint seals for cuts or tears. If a ball joint seal is damaged, or any looseness is present, replace the front lower control links and/or steering knuckle assemblies as necessary.
   • Refer to Front Lower Control Front Link Replacement (Non V-Series With RWD)Front Lower Control Front Link Replacement (V-Series)Front Lower Control Front Link Replacement (Non V-Series With AWD)
   • Refer to Front Lower Control Rear Link Replacement (Non V-Series)Front Lower Control Rear Link Replacement (V-Series)
3. Support the front lower control link with a floor stand as far outboard as possible and raise the suspension until the link moves 25 mm (1 in).
4. Install the J-8001  dial indicator to measure the vertical lash in the ball joint.
CAUTION:

Do not pry in such a way that the ball joint seal is contacted. Damage to the seal may result.

5. Apply downward force to the front lower control link and zero the dial indicator.
6. Apply upward force to the front lower control link and check the dial indicator. Record the measurement.
7. If the dial indicator reading is more than 0.50 mm (0.020 in), replace the front lower control link.
8. Perform this procedure for each front lower control link as necessary.