GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 GMC_Truck 🢒 2000 🢒 Savana 🢒 General Information 🢒 Maintenance and Lubrication 🢒 Ball Joint Wear Check

Tools Required

J 8001 Dial Indicator Set

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.


    Object Number: 160827 Size: SH
  1. Raise the vehicle. Support the lower control arm with a floor stand or jack, as far outboard as possible, near the ball joint.
  2. Wipe the ball joints clean. Check the seals for cuts or tears.
  3. Adjust the wheel bearings. Refer to Wheel Bearing Adjustment

    4. Object Number: 2007 Size: SH
  4. Check the ball joints for horizontal looseness.
    5. • Position the dial indicator against the lowest outboard point on the wheel rim.
    • Rock the wheel in and out while reading the dial indicator. This shows horizontal looseness in both joints.
    • The indicator reading should be no more than 3.18 mm (0.125 in). If the reading is too high, check the lower ball joint for vertical looseness.

    Object Number: 2008 Size: SH
  5. Check the ball joints for vertical looseness.
    6. 5.1. Position the dial indicator against the spindle to show vertical movement.
    5.2. Pry between the lower control arm and the outer race while reading the dial indicator. This shows vertical looseness in the ball joints.
    5.3. The indicator reading should be no more than 2 mm (0.08 in). If the reading is too high, replace the ball joint. Refer to Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement or Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement .