Worn Ball Joints
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,204
Likes: 4
From: Midland Georgia
St. Jude Donor '06
Worn Ball Joints
What is the best method for determining worn ball joints on a C4? Mostly, but not always it is the bottom ball joint, correct? Is there a wear indicator on the Zerk (grease fitting) that will indicate it is time for lower ball joints?
This assumes front bearing and outer tie rods are in good shape.
This assumes front bearing and outer tie rods are in good shape.
Last edited by jakers; Mar 16, 2009 at 04:18 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 3,566
Likes: 4
From: Mt Laurel NJ
St. Jude Donor '06-'07
I believe the lower ball joints wear out first, but I guess it depends on how you drive your car. The FSM says to check the wear indicator, as you mentioned.
Having a problem, or looking for something to do?
Randy
Having a problem, or looking for something to do?
Randy
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,204
Likes: 4
From: Midland Georgia
St. Jude Donor '06
) This is a weekend car/project/make it nice car. All for fun and no rush!
looking for something to do? Always!
This weekend I will be replacing the rear hubs and Universal joints.
Last edited by jakers; Mar 16, 2009 at 05:12 PM.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2005
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From: Riverside County Southern California
Co-winner 2020 C4 of the Year - Modified
2018 Corvette of Year Finalist
2017 C4 of Year
2016 C7 of Year Finalist
St. Jude Donor '09 thru '20
There is no wear indicator (like brake pads). If a bll joint is bad, the suspension will be loose or have movement while the vehicle is up on a jack or stands. If it time to replace ball joints buy bj at NAPA, do not buy the cheap stuff (china, mexico, greece)
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,204
Likes: 4
From: Midland Georgia
St. Jude Donor '06
Moog only based upon the fitment issues with others.
Race Director
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 13,961
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From: WI
A worn out bottom ball joint will not be flush with the rest of the surface by the zerk. It pulls up through. The FSM clearly shows a picture of this.
With the boot off you may be able to see the ball, if worn there could be rusty spots/chunks missing. It should move smoothly not clunky.
With the boot off you may be able to see the ball, if worn there could be rusty spots/chunks missing. It should move smoothly not clunky.
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,204
Likes: 4
From: Midland Georgia
St. Jude Donor '06
Thanks Noland. Yes, I remembered you suggesting another brand that fit per spec. I just could not rememeber the brand. I was going to search your posts. TRW, refreshed my memory! Thanks!! 
Thanks Andrew! Smooth not clunky! I have the car up on stands now to do the rear hubs and I will take some time Friday evening to check it out!
A worn out bottom ball joint will not be flush with the rest of the surface by the zerk. It pulls up through. The FSM clearly shows a picture of this.
With the boot off you may be able to see the ball, if worn there could be rusty spots/chunks missing. It should move smoothly not clunky.
With the boot off you may be able to see the ball, if worn there could be rusty spots/chunks missing. It should move smoothly not clunky.
Thanks Andrew! Smooth not clunky! I have the car up on stands now to do the rear hubs and I will take some time Friday evening to check it out!
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Team Owner
Joined: Feb 2006
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From: sw Ohio
I've got 117K on my suspension and it all felt loose. Eventually it started making grinding noises I assume because of a lack of grease. I just replaced mine. It was a tough job. I also went with Moog parts, the cheapest place to buy them is RockAuto.
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 3,204
Likes: 4
From: Midland Georgia
St. Jude Donor '06
Safety Car
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 3,566
Likes: 4
From: Mt Laurel NJ
St. Jude Donor '06-'07
