Diagnosis And Testing - Lower Ball Joint

Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

For proper diagnosis, the lower ball joint wear must be measured with a dial indicator.

The steering knuckle must be pried fully in both directions to accurately measure total ball joint movement.

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to HOISTING, STANDARD PROCEDURE .
2. Attach a dial indicator (4) with the indicator resting on the flat part of the steering knuckle (3) by the lower ball stud.
3. Set the dial indicator (4) to zero.
4. Pry between the knuckle (3) and the axle tube yoke (2) next to the lower ball joint using a pry bar (1), record the reading on the dial indicator.
5. If lower ball joint wear is greater than 1.25 mm (0.050 in) then replacement of the lower ball joint is necessary. Refer to BALL JOINT, SUSPENSION, LOWER, REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .