K 3500 Truck 4WD V8-6.0L VIN U (2002)
6. Check the lower ball joints for wear and for vertical looseness using the following procedure:
6.1.
Inspect by sight the lower ball joint for wear. The position of the housing into which the grease fitting is threaded indicates wear. This round
housing projects 1.27 mm (0.050 inch) beyond the surface of the lower ball joint cover on a new ball joint. Under normal wear, the surface
of the lower ball joint housing retreats inward very slowly.
6.2.
First observe, then scrape a scale, a screwdriver, or a fingernail across the cover. If the round housing is flush with or inside of the cover
surface, replace the lower ball joint.
7. Place a J 8001 dial indicator (1) against the spindle in order to show vertical movement.
8. Pry between the lower control arm (2) and the outer bearing race (1) while reading the dial indicator. This shows vertical looseness in the ball
joints. The lower ball joint is not preloaded and may show some looseness.
9. If the dial indicator reading is more than 3.18 mm (0.125 inch), replace the lower ball joint.
10. If the lower ball joint is within specifications, and there is too much horizontal looseness, check the upper control arm for wear.
If you find any looseness or can twist the stud with your fingers, replace the upper control arm.
