Ball Joint— Inspection; Wheel Hub And Bearings - Chevrolet 10 1971 Series Chassis Service Manual

FRONT SUSPENSION 3-6
Ball Joint— Inspection
Lower
Lower ball joints are a loose fit when not connected to
the steering knuckle. Wear may be checked without dis­
assembling the ball stud, as follows:
1. Support weight of control arms at wheel hub and
drum.
2. Measure distance between tip of ball stud and tip of
grease fitting below ball joint (fig. 13).
3. Move support to control arm to allow wheel hub and
drum to hang free. Measure distance as in Step 2.
If the difference in measurements exceeds .094"
(3/32") for all models, ball joint is worn and should
be replaced.
4. Lower vehicle to floor.
Replacement (Fig. 14)
The following procedure can be performed "off" the
vehicle if the control arm happens to be removed for
some other reason.
1. Using Tools J-9519-10 and J-9519-7 as shown, turn
down on hex head screw until the ball joint is pushed
out.
Fig. 6— Wheel Hub and Bearings
Installation
1. Start the replacement ball joint into the control arm
using Tools J-9519-10 and J-9519-9 as shown.
NOTE:
new ball joint facing inward.
2. Turn down on hex head screw until ball joint is
seated in the control arm.
3. Install the ball stud to the steering knuckle, secure
in place by the nut and install new cotter pin.
NOTE:
steering knuckle fastener is an important attach­
ing part in that it could affect the performance
of vital components and systems, and/or could
result in major repair expense. It must be
replaced with one of the same part number or
with equivalent part if replacement becomes
necessary. Do not use a replacement part of
less quality or substitute design. Torque values
must be used as specified during reassembly to
assure proper retention of this part.
4. Install a lube fitting into the ball stud assembly.
Position bleed vent in rubber foot of the
This lower control arm ball stud to
10-30 CHEVROLET TRUCK SERVICE MANUAL