Hombre S Regular Cab 4WD V6-4.3L (1999)
7. For 4WD vehicles, place the vehicle on jack stands. Place a dial indicator (1) against the spindle in order to show vertical movement.
8. Pry between the lower control arm (2) and the outer bearing race (1) while reading the dial indicator. This shows vertical looseness in the ball
joints. The lower ball joint is not preloaded and may show some looseness.
9. If the indicator reading is more than 3.18 mm (0.125 in), replace the ball joint.
10. If the lower ball joint is within specifications, and there is too much horizontal looseness, check the upper ball joint for wear.
1. Disconnect the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
2. If you find any looseness or can twist the stud with your fingers, replace the ball joint.
