How to know when I need new ball joints

[Marcus001]

I was servicing my brakes a little while ago and I looked at my ball joints. The best way I could describe it is that it looks like it is about to fall apart. I am rather inexperienced when it comes to most things vehicle related. Of what I have read so far, there is a huge long list of things that MIGHT indicate a bad ball joint. I felt it would be easier to ask around here.

I don't mind replacing them. What I would like to know is how would I know that I need to replace them? And if I do need to replace them, what do I need? I know I need (or I should have) a ball joint press, but after that I don't know. If I do replace them should I do it myself and then get it aligned, or have a place that does alignments do it for me? Things of that nature. I really have no idea.

As always, any and all answers are appreciated!

 

[Mark_88]

Howdy Marcus...

Easiest way to test them is to lift the front end so the tire is hanging freely. With that, take a pry bar and put it under the tire so that it is wedged against the floor and then pry upwards a few times...if the ball joints are good (and bearings) the tire will move only a bit but you won't feel a clunk...the movement will be minimal. If the ball joints are worn you will get up and down movement with a noticeable clunk.

While you're there with the front of the truck off the ground grab the tire with both hands on the sides and try to rock it side to side by pulling left and right towards you...The tire should not move much if everything is tight and your bearings are good. Any movement on a good front end will be what you would normally experience with a tight front end...the tires will move like turning a corner...problems with front end components may be noticeable doing this so you might need to inspect further or have a friend rock the tire while you watch.

Another simpler test is to drive over small potholes...not too fast...when the tire drops into the pothole you will hear a loud clunk...that's usually ball joints going south...if no clunk they are probably good...that's why it's a good idea to avoid potholes when possible.

Only problem with these tests is there are other components that may contribute to the noise...like the bushings and tie rod ends...so further inspection may be needed by a professional if you're not comfortable with it...if your mechanic tells you something needs replacing...ask him to show you how that is determined...anyone who is doing right by you will usually want to show you the problem and tell you how to fix it.

 

[adsm08]

On a 99 you need to test the lower ball joint as Mark described, but don't rely just on feel, especially if you are inexperienced, have a friend help, one of you pry, and one of you watch the joint. You are looking for the stud to move and the arm to stay still.

For the top joint you need to do the same test as the lower, but while the wheel is jacked up you also need to push in on the top of the tire and watch the joint for movement.

Because of your style suspension it is important to have a jack under the control arm so the wheel is up off the ground but the suspension is still loaded with the weight of the vehicle.