Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement Independent

1. Raise the vehicle.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
3. Support the weight of the control arms at the wheel hub and drum.



4. Measure the distance between the tip of the ball joint stud and the tip of the grease fitting below the ball joint.



5. Move the support to underneath the control arm, allowing the wheel hub and drum to hang free.



6. Measure the distance again as in Step 4. If the difference in measurements exceed 2.38 mm (3/32 in), this indicates that the ball joint is worn. The ball joint MUST be replaced.
7. If the ball joint seals are cracked, cut, or torn, replace the ball joint.

For lower control arm and components, refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement .

Tools Required

1. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. If a frame hoist is used, support the lower control arm with a floor stand.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
3. Remove the following components:

•	The cotter pin

•

The nut

•	Tthe grease fitting

4. Loosen the nut two turns, but do not remove.



5. Loosen the ball joint in the steering knuckle.

5.1.	Use the J 23742 between the ball joint studs.

5.2.	You may need to remove the caliper and wire the caliper to the frame in order to gain clearance for the J 23742 . Refer to Brake Caliper Replacement in Disc Brakes.

5.3.	Extend the J 23742 until the lower ball joint breaks free from the steering knuckle.

5.4.	Remove the nut and the J 23742 .




6. Take the hub/rotor and the knuckle assembly off of the lower ball joint.

Caution: Floor jack must remain under the lower control arm during removal and installation to retain the lower control arm in position. Failure to do so could result in personal injury.

7. Remove the ball joint from the lower control arm.

7.1.	Install the tools as shown.

7.2.	Turn the hex head screw until the ball joint comes free from the lower control arm.

7.3.	Remove the tools and the ball joint.

For lower control arm and components, refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement .

1. Install the ball joint into the lower control arm.

1.1.	Start the ball joint into the control arm and install the tools as shown.

1.2.	Position the bleed vent in the rubber boot, facing inward.

1.3.	Turn the hex head screw until the ball joint is seated in the lower control arm.

2. Install the ball joint into the steering knuckle. Mate the steering knuckle to the lower ball joint.
3. Install the caliper, if removed. Refer to Brake Caliper Replacement in Disc Brakes.

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

4. Install the lower ball joint nut.

Tighten
Tighten the nut to 122 N·m (90 lb ft).

Important: Maximum torque to align the cotter pin is 175 N·m (130 lb ft).

5. Install the cotter pin.
6. Install the grease fitting. Lubricate the ball joint with the recommended lubricant until visible. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
7. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
8. Lower the vehicle.
9. Check the front wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Specifications in Wheel Alignment.