Ball Joint: Testing and Inspection

SUSPENSION: FRONT LOWER BALL JOINT:

INSPECTION

1. INSPECT FRONT LOWER BALL JOINT






(a) Inspect the turning of the ball joint.
(1) Secure the front lower ball joint assembly in a vise using aluminum plates.
(2) Install the nut to the front lower ball joint assembly stud.
(3) Using a torque wrench, turn the nut continuously at a rate of 3 to 5 seconds per turn and take the torque reading on the 5th turn.
Turning torque:
3.5 N*m (36 kgf*cm, 31 in.*lbf) or less
HINT: If the turning torque is not within the specified range, replace the front lower ball joint assembly with a new one.

(b) Inspect the dust cover.
(1) Check that the dust cover is not cracked and that there is no grease on it.