Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Inspection

Special Tools 

J-8001  Dial Indicator

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .

NOTE:
• 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. Clean and inspect the ball joint seal for cuts or tears. If the ball joint seal is damaged, replace the ball joint or the lower control arm as applicable for this vehicle.
3. Support the lower control arm with a floor stand as far outboard as possible and raise the suspension until the lower control arm moves 25 mm (1 in).
Fig 1: Identifying Dial Indicator
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY
4. Install J-8001  dial indicator or a suitable dial indicator to measure vertical lash in the ball joint.
CAUTION:

Do not pry in such a way that the ball joint seal is contacted. Damage to the seal may result.

5. Gently lift or pry between the knuckle and the lower control arm to induce ball joint movement. Record the dial indicator measurement.
6. If the dial indicator reading is more than 0.5 mm (0.020 in), replace the ball joint or the lower control arm as applicable for this vehicle.