Are upper and lower ball joints the same size?
In non-MacPherson strut automobile suspension, the two ball joints are called the “upper ball joint” and “lower ball joint”. Lower ball joints are sometimes larger and may wear out faster, because the fore and aft loads, primarily due to braking, are higher at the bottom ball joint.
Are ball joints different sizes?
Removing the upper ball joint takes a special socket. Unfortunately, there are three different sizes. The small used on A-body drum brakes, the medium used on A-body disk brakes and B/E bodies. The larger was used on trucks and possibly the body-on-frame Imperials.
What is the difference between upper and lower ball joints?
The lower ball joint is the load-carrying joint in this type of suspension, while the upper ball joint is the “follower,” with no significant load to support. It acts only as a second pivot point for the steering knuckle.
How do you measure ball joint size?
Loaded Joint: To check a loaded ball joint, place a jack or jack stand under the lower control arm to support the weight of the vehicle. Attach a dial indicator to the lower control arm and locate the dial in a vertical position to measure axial runout at the steering knuckle.
Should you replace upper and lower ball joints together?
Q: Should I Replace All Ball Joints at the Same Time? A: Plenty of mechanics will recommend that you replace both the upper and lower ball joints at the same time. They may also recommend checking related components at the same time, such as the stud hole in the steering knuckle.
Is it safe to drive with bad ball joints?
You should not drive with a bad ball joint. Continuing to drive can cause damage to other vehicle components and if the joint fails completely you could lose control of the vehicle, leading to a crash and injuries.
Do upper or lower ball joints wear out first?
Because the ball joint can move in two different directions at once, the suspension can, too. Depending on the type of vehicle and suspension in question, there may possibly be an upper and a lower ball joint. The lower ball joint usually takes the biggest hits and wears out first.
Should upper and lower ball joints be replaced at the same time?
How much play is acceptable in a ball joint?
The old rule of thumb that ball joints with more than . 050 inches of play are worn does NOT hold true for all vehicles. Some ball joints should have NO visible play while others can handle up to . 250 inch or more of play and still be considered okay.
How can you tell if a ball joint is load carry?
What’s the difference between upper and lower ball joints?
1. Premium Polychloroprene Sealed Boot w/ Grease-Relief Valve: 2. Powdered-Metal Gusher Bearing Technology: 3. Full-Ball Hardened Stud w/ Grease Grooves: 4. One-piece Forged Housing: 5. Belleville Washer Pre-Load: 6. Greaseable Design: 7. Pressed-in Patented Cover Plate Design loading… loading…
How do you replace a ball joint on a trooper?
Remove the cotter pin from the upper ball joint and loosen the nut all the way down but to don’t remove it. Leave threaded at the end of the screw. 3. Use a hammer to bang around the upper spindle until it releases the ball joint. The upper A-arm will move up so be prepared. 4.
Where are the ball joints on a Jeep Grand Cherokee?
Today, we tackle the Jeep Grand Cherokee Upper and Lower Ball Joints. We’ll use a rented tool set from our local auto parts place for the ball joint applica… Today, we tackle the Jeep Grand Cherokee Upper and Lower Ball Joints.
Why are Moog ball joints important to lubrication?
MOOG ® ball joints are designed to make lubrication service easier, contributing to longer component life 7. Pressed-in Patented Cover Plate Design Compressed into place, its placement within the housing virtually eliminates excess axial and radial movement of the full-ball stud, securing a solid steering feel for the life of the part