Checking ballpins - AP46.40-P-4650-03G

Fig 1: Identifying Test Panel (385 589 03 63 00)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ USA

Fig 2: Identifying Test Panel (385 589 04 63 00)

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ USA

Move the ball joint into a position with good access.
Clean rubber boot and surrounding area carefully.
Guide test panel (5) between steering gear pitman arm and bellows and push bellows as far as possible toward ball joint.
On vehicles with power steering, use the test panel (5) 385 589 04 63 00.

Fig 3: Pushing Bellows Toward Ball Joint

Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ USA

Remove grease from exposed point of ball stud (4) and check condition of ball stud (4).
If there is corrosion on the ball stud (4) or the rubber boot is damaged, replace the ball joint against a separate repair order.
Clean contact surface between rubber boot and steering gear pitman arm; remove any unevenness if necessary.
Apply long-life grease to ball stud (4).
Push back rubber boot until its entire circumference makes contact with steering gear pitman arm.