K 1500 Truck 4WD V8-350 5.7L (1986)
FIGURE 3 - BALL JOINT TURNING EFFORT
CHECKING BALL JOINT TURNING EFFORT (K-V10, K-V20)
Front axle ball joint adjustment is generally necessary only when there is excessive play in steering, irregular wear on tires or persistent loosening of the
tie rod is observed.
1.
Raise vehicle on hoist then place jack stands just inside of front springs.
2.
Disconnect connecting rod and tie rod to allow independent movement of each steering knuckle.
3.
Apply a fish-scale to the tie rod mounting hole of the steering knuckle arm. With the knuckle assembly in the straight-ahead position, determine
the right angle pull required to keep the knuckle assembly turning after initial break-away. This pull should not exceed 25 lbs for each knuckle
assembly, in either direction.
4.
If the turning effort exceeds 25 lbs in either direction adjustment or replacement will be necessary. Follow the procedure in Section 3C of the 1988
Light Duty Service Manual X-8832.
