Upper

Fig. 23 Checking upper ball joint. 4 x 2 models:

4 X 2 MODELS

Upper Ball Joint

Before checking ball joints, wheel bearings must be properly adjusted.
1. Raise vehicle and position floor stands under right and left lower control arms near each lower ball joint.
2. Position dial indicator against wheel rim, Fig. 23.
3. Shake wheel, Fig. 23, and read gauge. Horizontal deflection should not exceed .125 in.
4. If reading exceeds .125 in., or if ball stud has been disconnected from knuckle assembly and any looseness is detected or stud is loose, replace ball joint.

Fig. 24 Lower ball joint wear indicator. 4 x 2 models:

Lower Ball Joint

The lower ball joint has a visual wear indicator, Fig. 24. To check, vehicle weight must rest on wheels to properly load ball joints.

Fig. 25 Checking ball joints. 4 x 4 models:

4 X 4 MODELS
Refer to Fig. 25 for ball joint inspection procedure on 4 x 4 vehicles.