For 1990-2009 cars only
- Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle with safety stands. Support the lower control arm with a floor stand or jack, as far outboard as possible, under the stabilizer shaft bracket.
- Wipe the ball joints clean. Check the seals for cuts or tears.
- Adjust the wheel bearings. Refer to Wheel Bearing Adjustment .
- Check the ball joints for vertical looseness. With the vehicle on the jack stands, place a dial indicator (1) against the spindle to show vertical movement.
- Pry between the lower control arm and the outer race (2) while reading the dial indicator. This shows vertical looseness in the ball joints.
Important:
• The vehicle must rest on a level surface. • The vehicle must be stable. Do not rock the vehicle on the floor
stands. • The upper control arm bumper must not contact the frame.
Important: If a seal is cut or torn, replace the ball joint.
Notice: Do not pry between the lower arm and the wheel drive shaft boot or in such a manner that the ball joint seal is contacted. Damage to the wheel drive shaft boot will result (4WD).
| 5.1. | The indicator reading should be no more than 2 mm (0.08 in). |
| 5.2. | If the reading is too high, replace the ball joint. |
