Dakota 4WD V8-318 5.2L (1991)
Ball Joint: Service and Repair
Upper Ball Joint Replacement
Fig. 2 Lower Control Arm And Torsion Spring. 4 Wheel Drive Models
1.
Remove cotter pin, locknut and spring washer from wheel hub.
2.
While applying brakes, loosen hub nut.
3.
Raise and support vehicle with front suspension in full rebound.
4.
Remove hub nut and washer, then wheel and tire assembly.
5.
Remove driveshaft to axle flange attaching bolts, then remove driveshafts.
6.
Loosen rear torsion bar anchor adjusting bolt to unload suspension.
7.
Remove cotter pin and nut from upper ball joint.
8.
Position ball joint removal tool C-3564-A on upper ball joint, then tighten tool and strike upper control arm with suitable hammer to remove ball
joint.
9.
Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a.
Press new ball joint into control arm with ball joint removal/installation tool No. C-4212, then install new seal.
b.
Tighten ball joint to steering knuckle attaching nut, driveshaft to axle flange attaching bolts and hub nut to specifications.
c.
Adjust torsion bars to set ride height. Refer to Steering and Suspension/Suspension/Adjustments.
