Upper Ball Joint Replacement

The lower control arm ball joints operate with no freeplay. The ball joint is pressed into the lower control arm. Ball joints can be pressed from lower control arm using a 1 1/16 inch deep socket and tool No. C-4699-2. When pressing ball joint into lower control arm, use tool Nos. C-4699-1 and C-4699-2. Install ball joint seal using a 1 1/2 socket and tool No. C-4699-2. On some models the ball joint is welded to the lower control arm. On these models the ball joint and lower control arm must be replaced as an assembly.

Fig. 11 Checking ball joint for wear:

CHECKING BALL JOINTS
With weight of vehicle resting on wheel and tire assembly, attempt to move grease fitting with fingers. Do not use tool or added force to attempt to move grease fitting. If grease fitting moves freely, ball joint is worn and should be replaced.