Firebird V8-350 5.7L VIN P SFI (1996)
Ball Joint: Testing and Inspection
Fig. 2 Upper Ball Joint Inspection
1. Raise front end of vehicle and position floor stands under both lower control arms as near to ball joints as possible.
2. Position a dial indicator against wheel rim as shown in Fig. 2. Push in on bottom of tire while pulling out at top, then reverse procedure.
3. Deflection on dial indicator should not exceed .125 inch. If deflection exceeds specification, replace ball joint.
4. If ball joint is disconnected from steering knuckle, check for looseness or see if ball joint can be twisted in its socket using your fingers.
5. If either of the above conditions exist, replace ball joint.
