How to tell if your front ball joint is failing?
This symptom can be difficult to catch; if you become aware of any other signs of ball joint failure, check your tires carefully and pay close attention to the inner treads. Wear must appear on either the inner or outer tread, not both, to signify worn-out front ball joints.
How do you test the wheel bearings on a Jeep Wrangler?
You should also check the control arm bushings for gouged or missing rubber. Wheel bearings: The wheel bearings on your Wrangler are tested in a manner much like your tie-rod ends. Begin by using a jack to lift one of your front wheels off the ground and place your hands on the top and bottom of the wheel.
How can I tell if my Jeep is still on the ground?
In the case of the boot being intact and if you have a dial indicator handy, you can check vertical and horizontal movement that way. Another test you can do with a jack is to lift one of your wheels off the ground while your friend watches a ball joint. Take a pry bar and place it in between the floor and your tire.
What happens when your steering wheel ball joint loosens?
Over time, a car’s ball joints may wear down. If a ball joint starts to loosen, you’ll hear clunking sounds from the front as the joint rattles in the socket. If it tightens up, the steering will bind so you can have a stiff spot as you turn the steering wheel.
How can you tell if your Jeep Wrangler ball joint is bad?
A worn ball joint will often cause sloppy steering and a popping sound as you go over pot holes and bumps. A simple check to see if your ball joints are bad is to jack up your Jeep, with a few inches of air under your front wheels. Use a long pry bar or broom handle inserted under one of the front tires to move the tire up and down.
How can I check the ball joint on my front suspension?
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. Jack up the car on the front cross-member.
Where can I get a ball joint adapter for a jeep?
There is a Jeep / Dodge specific ball joint tool (OTC 7894) that is available at amazon: Amazon.com: OTC 7894 Ball Joint Service Adapter for Jeep/Dodge: Automotive. This is used with the standard ball joint tool that you rent at the local parts store.
Why does my Jeep Wrangler make a popping sound?
On your Jeep, the ball joints are responsible for connecting the steering knuckle to your axle. A worn ball joint will often cause sloppy steering and a popping sound as you go over pot holes and bumps. A simple check to see if your ball joints are bad is to jack up your Jeep, with a few inches of air under your front wheels.