1975 Vehicles Ball Joint Checking

ALFA ROMEO

All Models - Check working surfaces of ball pins and their seats, and ball joint studs for damage or wear. Axial play should not exceed specifications (.04"). Replace complete ball joint unit when indicated

BMW

All Models - With lower control arm removed, measure axial (up and down) movement of ball joint stud. If movement exceeds .0945", replace ball joint.

COLT

All Models - With components removed from control arm and ball joint still installed, check the following: Horizontal and vertical free play (0") and ball joint rotation starting torque 4-7 ft. lbs. (.6-1.0 mkg). Replace ball joints if correct specifications are not obtained

COURIER

All Models - Check working surfaces of ball joints and studs for wear or damage. End play should not exceed .031" (.8mm). If end play is excessive, replace ball joint.

DATSUN

All Models (Exc. 620 Pickup) - Remove lower control arm. Measure axial movement by lifting and depressing ball joint stud. Difference between these two measurements is axial movement. Using suitable spring tension gauge attached to top of ball joint stud measure force (INCH lbs.) required to move ball joint stud laterally. If either measurement is not within specifications, replace ball joint.

Ball Joint Specifications

  Application                      Axial                     Lateral INCH Lbs. (cmkg)

B210..................   .004-.012"(.1-.3 mm)..........................  52 (60)

610,710 and 280Z....    .004" (.1 mm)..............................   35 (40)

FIAT

All Models - With vehicle raised and supported under lower control arms, grasp wheel at top and bottom and try to shake wheel. If any movement is noted, control arm must be removed for further inspection

HONDA

All Models - Raise and support front of vehicle. Attach dial indicator onto lower control arm with indicator tip on steering knuckle near ball joint. Place pry bar between lower control arm and steering knuckle.

JAGUAR

All Models - Upper ball joint must be replaced. If signs of wear or play are evident. The lower ball joint is adjustable with shims if axial play exceeds .004-.006" (.10-.15 mm). Shims must not be removed to take up excessive wear in ball pin and socket. If parts are excessively worn, replacement is required.

LUV

With vehicle raised and supported under lower control arms, grasp wheel at top and bottom. Try to shake wheel and if any movement is noted, inspect front suspension for wear or damage.

MAZDA

All Models - Check ball joint dust seal for wear or damage and, if necessary, replace seal. Ball joint end play must not exceed .039" (1 mm). If end play exceeds specifications, replace ball joint.

OPEL

All Models - Raise and support front of vehicle. Inspect ball joint rubber boots for damage and replace as necessary. Using suitable gauge (J-23745) measure axial play. If axial play is more than .080" (2 mm), ball joint must be replaced.

PEUGEOT

All Models - Inspect ball joints for roughness or excessive wear. Replace ball joints as necessary.

PORSCHE

All Models - When moving ball pin some friction torque should be felt. If ball pin can be moved without resistance and end play is shown, replace ball joint.

RENAULT

All Models - Inspect ball joints for wear or excessive play. Replace ball joint as necessary.

SAAB

All Models - If ball joint exhibits excessive play, it must be replaced as a complete unit.

SUBARU

All Models - Check ball joint for excessive play by pushing and pulling on ball joint stud. Allowance loosness is less than .012". If play exceeds this specification, ball joint must be replaced.