Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Ball Joint Inspection-Backlash

1. WARNING: The electrical power to the air suspension system must be shut off prior to hoisting, jacking or towing an air suspension vehicle. This can be accomplished by turning off the air suspension switch located in the luggage compartment. Failure to do so can result in unexpected inflation or deflation of the air springs, which can result in shifting of the vehicle during these operations.

Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Inspect the ball joint boots for tears. If torn, install new ball joints as necessary.
3. Prior to inspecting the ball joints for lateral backlash and end play, inspect the wheel bearings.
4. Using a safety stand, support the front suspension lower arm to be inspected.





5. NOTE: Wheel and tire assembly removed for clarity.

While an assistant pushes and pulls equally on the top and bottom of the tire, observe any relative lateral backlash between the front suspension upper arm and the front wheel spindle. If the lateral backlash is at or exceeds the specification, a new ball joint must be installed.





6. NOTE: Wheel and tire assembly removed for clarity.

While an assistant moves the tire up and down, observe any relative end play between the front suspension upper arm and the front wheel spindle. If the end play is at or exceeds the specification, a new ball joint must be installed.
7. Remove the wheel and tire assembly.
8. Separate the front suspension lower arm from the front wheel spindle.
^ Discard any fasteners that are removed.





9. Using the special tool, move the ball joint as shown and check for any lateral backlash. If the lateral backlash is at, or exceeds, the specification, a new ball joint must be installed.





10. Using the special tool, move the ball joint as shown and check for any end play. If the end play is at, or exceeds, the specification, a new ball joint must be installed.
11. Connect the front suspension lower arm to the front wheel spindle.
^ Install new fasteners.
12. Install the wheel and tire assembly.
13. Remove the safety stand.
14. Lower the vehicle.