GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 43631 Ball Joint Remover

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Wipe the ball joint clean. Inspect the seal for cuts or tears. If the seal is torn, replace the seal.
  4. Inspect the ball joint for damage. If the ball joint is damaged, replace the lower control arm.
  5. Support the lower control arm with a jack.

  6. Object Number: 465420  Size: SH
  7. Remove the nut from the ball stud (2).

  8. Object Number: 789703  Size: SH
  9. Use the J 43631 in order to separate the ball joint from the knuckle (2).

  10. Object Number: 464413  Size: SH
  11. Test the ball joint for smooth rotation. If the ball joint does not rotate smoothly, replace the lower control arm.
  12. If replacement of the ball joint is necessary, refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement in Front Suspension.