vtdave

What is the proper procedure for inspecting our front-end ball joints for unacceptable wear? I couldn't find any specifics in the factory service manual.

Does the S197 have wear limit markers on its balljoints like the older (early 90s) Mustangs? If so, do you read the marker with the suspension loaded (on ramps), and then what are the tolerance limits?

I know the generic tests like "grab the wheel and try to rock it up-and-down and side-to-side," but those seems a little inexact.

Thanks,
Dave

atomicpunk

Read through this: click on the PDF file on the left to open

http://iihs.net/fsm/?dir=55&viewfile=Suspension System.pdf

SpartaPerformance

Jack the car up put jack stands under the front control arms, lower the car onto the stands, grab the wheel at 12 o'clock and 6 o'clock and shake the wheel up and down, if there is any play the ball joint is failing/failed.

vtdave

Thanks! I didn't find that on the first try. Much appreciated.