Do ball joints have to be torqued?
It is vital to torque ball joint stud nuts to proper specifications. Improper torquing will cause looseness that may eventually cause joint stud breakage and damage to the steering knuckle. Only the threads of the stud should extend through the steering knuckle.
How many ball joints are there in a suspension?
On some newer design multi-link independent suspensions, there are two upper and two lower ball joints per corner, though this style is generally only replaceable with the whole control arms. A ball joint is just what it sounds like – a stud with a ball-end that’s trapped in a socket, so it can rotate and pivot and move relatively freely.
Why do ball joints need to be replaced?
Ball joints deteriorate if dirt, grit and impurities get inside or grease escapes, leading to a lack of lubrication. Added to this, rusting and general wear and tear also damage these suspension parts. The effects of this deterioration are excessive play and looseness (beyond the manufacturer’s specifications).
How much does it cost to replace a ball joint on a Subaru?
For some more specific estimates of the cost to replace ball joints on common vehicles, using $100 an hour as a labor rate, and adding in an average amount for a wheel alignment: For a 2007 Subaru Forester, the labor to replace the front lower ball joint is .8 of an hour.
How much does it cost to replace ball joint on Honda Civic?
For A 2003 Honda Civic, the labor time to replace the front lower ball joint is 2 hours. It’s pressed into the knuckle, which is usually removed for the service. A factory part costs about $65, or a Mevotech part costs about $35.
How to replace ball joints and control arms?
Pinch bolt securing upper control arm shown. Spray the pinch bolt with WD-40 or PB Blaster, and let soak before you try to remove. To service the upper control arms more easily, the entire shock assembly will need to be removed. One large through bolt holds it to the lower control arm. Use breaker bar or impact gun to free the nut on large bolt.
How much does it cost to replace a ball joint?
This write-up is not meant to supplant the vehicle or ball joint manufacturer’s recommended procedures for replacing your ball joints. What does it cost to have the ball joints replaced? It runs from $800.00 on the low side up to about $1500.00 if done by a repair shop or dealer.
What to look for in a front suspension ball joint?
Look for the grease fitting. If your front suspension uses MacPherson struts, look for a wear indicator, which is usually a grease fitting. Grasp the fitting and try to wiggle it. If the fitting moves around inside the housing, you’ll need to replace the ball joint.
What should the ball joint NUT be torqued to?
29) Torque the lower ball joint nut (1 5/16″ socket) TO 35 LB/FT ONLY AT THIS TIME . To keep the ball joint from spinning, you may have to apply light pressure to the knuckle with a floor jack. (see photo below)