F 250 2WD Pickup V6-4.2L VIN 2 (1998)
Ball Joint: Testing and Inspection
Ball Joint, Lower
1. Raise and support the vehicle.
WARNING: THE ELECTRICAL POWER TO THE AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM MUST BE SHUT OFF PRIOR TO HOISTING,
JACKING OR TOWING AN AIR SUSPENSION VEHICLE. THIS CAN BE ACCOMPLISHED BY TURNING OFF THE AIR
SUSPENSION SWITCH LOCATED BEHIND THE RH KICK PANEL AREA. FAILURE TO DO SO CAN RESULT IN
UNEXPECTED INFLATION OR DEFLATION OF THE AIR SPRINGS, WHICH CAN RESULT IN SHIFTING OF THE VEHICLE
DURING THESE OPERATIONS.
2. Prior to performing any inspection of the ball joints, inspect the front wheel bearings.
3. Position a safety stand beneath the front suspension lower arm to be tested.
4. While an assistant pulls and pushes the bottom of the tire, observe the relative movement between the lower spindle arm and the front suspension
lower arm ball joint. Any movement at or exceeding the specification indicates a worn or damaged lower ball joint. Replace as necessary.
5. While an assistant pulls and pushes the top of the tire, observe the relative movement between the upper spindle arm and the front suspension
lower arm ball joint. Movement at or exceeding the specification indicates a worn or damaged upper ball joint. Replace the upper ball joint as
necessary.
