- Replace the ball joint if any looseness is detected in the joint.
- Replace the ball joint if the ball joint seal is cut.
- Inspect the ball joints.
| 3.1. | Raise the front of the vehicle which allows the front suspension
to hang free. |
| 3.2. | Grasp the tire at the top and the bottom. |
| 3.3. | Move the top of the tire with an in and out motion. |
| 3.4. | Observe the ball joint for any horizontal movement of the steering
knuckle, relative to the front lower arm. Replace the ball joint if movement
is present. |
- Replace the ball joint if the ball stud is disconnected from the
steering knuckle and looseness is detected.
- Replace the ball joint if the ball stud can be twisted in the
socket using finger pressure.
- Inspect the ball stud tightness in the steering knuckle boss.
| 6.1. | Shake the wheel while feeling for movement of the stud end or
castellated nut at the knuckle boss. |
| 6.2. | Inspect the castellated nut fastener tightening specifications
is an alternative method of inspecting for wear. |
A loose nut can indicate a bent stud or an opened-up hole in the knuckle
boss.
- Replace worn or damaged the ball joints and knuckles.
