Ball Joint Inspection
- To check lower ball joint, raise and support vehicle. Ensure wheels are positioned straight ahead. Have a helper depress brake pedal. Use a sturdy rod as a lever against wheel and under lower control arm to move lower control arm up and down. Van models should have no vertical movement.
- To check upper ball joint, use a block as a fulcrum and rod as a lever under tire to move entire wheel assembly up and down. Maximum vertical movement should not exceed .091" (2.3 mm).
- Disconnect ball joint from steering knuckle. Move ball joint stud back and forth several times, then install stud nut. Using a torque wrench, turn nut continuously about one turn every 2-4 seconds. Note torque reading on 5th turn. See BALL JOINT TURNING TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table.
BALL JOINT TURNING TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | INCH Lbs. (N.m) |
|---|---|
| Lower Ball Joint | 13-26 (1.5-2.9) |
| Upper Ball Joint | 9-30 (1.0-3.4) |