EL Camino V8-350 5.7L DSL (1982)
Ball Joint: Testing and Inspection
Lower
Fig. 9 Checking upper ball joint. Caballero & El Camino
Caballero & El Camino
1.
Ensure wheel bearings are properly adjusted.
2.
Raise vehicle and position supporting devices under lower control arms as near as possible to lower ball joints, ensuring vehicle is stable and does
not rock on supporting devices.
3.
Position dial indicator against wheel rim, Fig. 9.
4.
Grasp front wheel and push in on bottom of tire while pulling out at top and read gauge, then reverse push pull procedure.
5.
If dial indicator reading exceeds .125 inch or if ball stud has been disconnected from knuckle assembly and any looseness is detected or the stud
can be manually twisted in its socket, replace ball joint.
Fig. 10 Checking lower ball joint for wear
Fig. 11 Lower ball joint wear indicator
