Lower Ball Joint (Riviera, Eldorado & Toronado)
- Raise vehicle and position stands under lower control arms. Clamp self-locking pliers on hub to drive axle nut so pliers are in a horizontal position. Using a suitable stand, mount a dial indicator in a horizontal position so plunger contacts pliers.
- Place pry bar between lower control arm and drive axle outer race. Pry down on bar. If reading on dial indicator is greater than 0.125", replace lower ball joint. Also replace if ball stud is disconnected from knuckle or if any looseness is noted. Replace ball joint if ball stud can be twisted in its socket with fingers.