Dakota 4WD V8-4.7L Flex Fuel (2008)
Ball Joint: Testing and Inspection
Front Upper Ball Joint
UPPER BALL JOINT
1. Raise the front of the vehicle. Place safety floor stands under both lower control arms as far outboard as possible. Lower the vehicle to allow the
stands to support some or all of the vehicle weight.
2. Remove the front tires.
3. Mount a dial indicator (1) solidly to the frame and then zero the dial indicator.
4. Position dial indicator plunger on the topside of the upper ball joint (5).
NOTE: The dial indicator plunger must be perpendicular to the machined surface of the ball joint.
NOTE: Use care not to pry or tear the ball joint boot, when checking the free play.
5. Position a pry bar (3) between the steering knuckle (4) and the upper control arm (2). Pry upwards on the upper control arm.
6. If the travel exceeds 0.5 mm (0.020 in.), replace the upper control arm since the upper ball joint is integral to the arm See: Control Arm/Service
and Repair/Front Upper Control Arm - Removal.
7. If the upper ball joint is within specs reinstall the front tires See: Wheels and Tires/Service and Repair/Removal and Replacement.