XJ-S V12-5.3L (1982)
Ball Joint: Service and Repair
Lower Ball Joint
1.
Raise and support vehicle.
2.
Install spring compressor tool No. JD5G or equivalent. Compress spring.
3.
Disconnect outer tie rod from steering arm using removal tool No. JD24, JD100 or equivalent.
4.
Position knuckle facing out as follows:
a. Remove two nuts, bolts and washers securing upper ball joint assembly to control arms.
b. Carefully position knuckle outward, then install one upper mounting bolt through outer hole of control arm and inner hole of upper ball joint
assembly.
c. Install but do not tighten mounting bolt securing nut.
5.
Remove self-locking nut and washer securing lower ball joint to lower control arm.
6.
Support hub assembly and remove lower ball joint, using removal tool No. JD24, JD100 or equivalent.
7.
Position knuckle assembly downwards to rest on upper control arm bumper stops. Remove four bolts securing lower ball joint.
8.
Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. Use new lower ball joint mounting bolts.
b. Tighten to specifications.
c. Adjust ball joint clearance as described under ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURES/LOWER BALL JOINT ADJUST
d. Check and adjust front wheel alignment.
Upper Ball Joint
1.
Remove the wheel and turn the steering wheel to full lock position.
2.
Reinforce brake hose to relieve strain.
3.
Remove upper ball joint hardware.
4.
Release ball joint from axle carrier with taper separator tool JD.24.
5.
Hold the ball joint against taper fit washer and tighten retaining nut to 35-50 ft. lbs. (4.84-6.91 kgf/m). The bolts holding the ball joint to the
wishbone must be replaced with heads facing forward.
6.
Reassemble in reverse of disassembly, tightening fasteners to 26-32 ft. lbs. (3.60-4.42 kgf/m).
