Diagnosis And Testing - Lower Ball Joint

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2016 Jeep Wrangler and 2015 Jeep Wrangler. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Lower Ball Joint Movement Measurement

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

To properly diagnose the lower ball joint readings from the dial indicator are necessary.

Raise and support the vehicle.
Attach a dial indicator (4) with the indicator resting on the flat part of the steering knuckle (3) by the lower ball stud.
Set the dial indicator (4) to zero.
Pry between the knuckle (3) and the axle tube yoke (2) next to the upper ball joint using a pry bar (1), Record the reading on the dial indicator.
Axial measurement for a total lower ball joint movement, If this reading is above 1.25 mm (0.050 in) then replacement of the lower ball joint is necessary. Refer to BALL JOINT, SUSPENSION, LOWER, REMOVAL .