Replaced Ball Joints

[Sean M 2]

I noticed some steering wheel shake at high speeds. I just had new tires balanced so I knew there wasnt a issue with balancing. Checked the ball joints and sure enough the driver's side upper was shot. Lots of play in it. Replaced it myself with a new upper control arm, and greaseable ball joints. Got it aligned and rides like new. It wasn't that hard to replace, certainly can be done in the driveway with a little effort and the right tools.

 

[Chase Straw]

did you do all four ball joints or just the one side?

 

[Sean M 2]

Just the drivers side upper. I know I probably should have done the passenger's side as well, but it seemed to be fine. The driver's side is notorious for failing for some weird reason, or so Ive heard.

 

[Casey B]

How did you check it for being bad? The tire check while it is on jacks?

 

[Sean M 2]

Yes, I checked it while it was up on jacks. The drivers side, which was the bad one, had about a 3\4 in of play in an up and down motion. I could easily push and pull the top of the tire out towards me, and then back in towards the engine.The passenger's side was rock solid.

 

[WXMotorSports DecalsPartsAccs]

On my list to do as well. Waiting for my buddy to get his shop lift installed so i can do it there. my driveway is on a slope and the garage is not ideal.

 

[Sean M 2]

With a lift the job should be no sweat, just remember to get an alignment afterwards. Mine was way off.

 

[WXMotorSports DecalsPartsAccs]

Good tip Sean. I generally get an alighment every 6 mos if I need it or not.