Lower Ball Joint
The lower ball joint is a spherical bearing used in a wheel strut to connect the steering knuckle with the control arm. It is an essential component that allows the suspension and steering systems to work together. The joint is sealed and does not require lubrication or regular maintenance. However, the joint will eventually wear out and it must be replaced as soon this happens. A loose ball joint reduces car handling and can potentially cause an accident. Replacing a lower ball joint is not a easy task and usually requires the removal of the wheel and brakes.
The steering and suspension assembly has many components working together. The wheel hub is attached to the steering knuckle, which is a forged metal component that has arms and pivot points for both steering and suspension. The steering knuckle is connected by ball joint to one or more control arms, known as wishbones. The control arms are connected to car framework through another set of bearings. Most cars use the MacPherson strut design which connects the steering knuckle to the shock absorber, and to the lower control arm through a lower ball joint. Some cars have double wishbone suspension, with a lower and upper control arm.
The first signs of a lower ball joint failure include clicking noises and small vibrations felt through the steering wheel. The noises and vibrations gets progressively worse as the joint deteriorates. The first thing to do when these signs appear is to check each joint visually to see if there are any cracks. Sometimes a joint can fail without there being any visible cracks. To test if the joint has actually failed, raise the front of the car with a jack and try to move each wheel laterally. Grab the wheel with one hand on top and the other hand on the bottom, and shake the wheel back and forth. If there is any lateral movement, the joint has surely failed.
Removing a lower ball joint is not a easy task and usually requires the removal of the wheel and the brakes. Use a jack to raise the front axle off the ground and remove the wheel. If necessary, also remove the brakes to gain access to the ball joint. Brake calipers can be left connected to the brake line but they should be supported by wire, not left hanging by the brake line. Remove the cotter pin and stud nut from the ball joint, and then separate it from the steering knuckle. The proper tool to use is a ball joint separator, also known as a pickle fork, but a pry bar can also be used.
Installing a lower ball joint is easier than removing one. Clean the joint socket and press the new joint into it. Use a large screw clamp if the socket is too tight to press the joint in by hand, but avoid hitting the joint with a hammer as this may damage it. Tighten the nut and insert a new cotter pin. It is preferable to use a torque wrench so that the correct amount of torque can be applied to the nut, as noted in the service manual. Replace the brakes and wheel, and then lower the car off the jack. A short test drive should now be done to ensure that the steering, suspension and brakes are all functioning normally.
While the lower ball joint is a common component, the design of the strut that hold it varies between different car models. This method is only a general outline of what is involved with changing the joint, and may not be exactly what is specified in the manual. As always, refer to the service manual before attempting any repairs, or seek advice from a qualified mechanic. The lower ball joint is one of the more critical components in a car. The proper operation of the steering and suspension rely on the joint working normally. If it is damaged or installed incorrectly, the car may become dangerous to drive.
