GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 GMC_Truck 🢒 2006 🢒 TopKick C-Series (Conventional) C6/C7/C8 🢒 Suspension 🢒 Suspension General Diagnosis 🢒 Ball Joint Inspection

    Object Number: 2007 Size: SH

    Important: 

       •  The vehicle must rest on a level surface.
       • The vehicle must be stable. Do not rock the vehicle on the floor stands.

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  2. Support the front axle with a floor stand or jack, as far outboard as possible.

    3. Important: If a seal is cut or torn, replace the ball joint.

  3. Clean and inspect the ball joint seals for cuts or tears. If the ball joint seals are damaged, replace the ball joint. Refer to Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement or Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement .
  4. Check the wheel bearing for looseness. If looseness in the wheel bearing is present, refer to Wheel Bearings Diagnosis .
  5. Check the ball joints for horizontal looseness.
    6. 5.1. Position the J 8001 Dial Indicator against the lowest outboard point on the wheel rim.
    5.2. Rock the wheel in and out while reading the dial indicator. This shows horizontal looseness in both joints.

    Object Number: 2009 Size: SH
  6. If the dial indicator reading is more than 3.18 mm (0.125 in), replace the lower ball joint. Refer to Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement .
  7. If the lower ball joint is within specifications, and there is too much horizontal looseness, check the upper ball joint for wear.
    8. 7.1. Disconnect the upper ball joint from the steering knuckle. Refer to Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement .
    7.2. If you find any looseness or can twist the upper ball joint stud with your fingers, replace the ball joint. Refer to Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement .