Ford 9L3Z-3050-A Joint Assembly - Ball

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Inspect the control arm balljoints for looseness anytime either of them is separated from the steering knuckle. Check if you can turn the ballstud in its socket with your fingers. If the balljoint is loose, or if the ballstud can be turned, replace the balljoint. You can also check the balljoints with the suspension assembled. If the vehicle is equipped with air suspension, turn off the air suspension system. The switch is located in the area of the right kick panel. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheels. Place a floor jack under the lower control arm as close to each balljoint as possible and raise it slightly. For upper balljoints, position a dial indicator against the wheel rim, grasp the top and bottom of the tire and "rock" the tire, alternately pushing the top and pulling the bottom, and vice versa. The dial indicator should indicate no more than 0.125-inch deflection. If the indicated reading exceeds this figure, the balljoint is faulty and should be replaced. For lower balljoints, position a dial indicator against the wheel rim and insert a prybar between the lower control arm and the steering knuckle. As you lever the prybar, the needle should not deflect more than 0.125-inch. If it does, the balljoint is faulty and should be replaced. Balljoint replacement, on these models, has evolved from replacing the balljoints and control arms to replacing the balljoint individually; this is due to the availability of balljoints from aftermarket suppliers. As a result, it may be possible for you to replace an individual balljoint on your specific year and model vehicle although the manufacturer has not addressed the procedure for your specific vehicle. Check with your local auto parts store for availability on replacement balljoints for your vehicle. A special balljoint removal/installer tool is necessary and can usually be obtained from an auto parts store or tool rental business. Detach the steering knuckle from the control arm. Remove the snap ring for the balljoint and discard it. Place the special balljoint removal tool and the balljoint according to the tool manufacturer's instructions, then remove the balljoint. Using the special balljoint installer tool, install the balljoint. Be careful not to damage the rubber balljoint boot during installation. Install the balljoint snap ring. Attach the steering knuckle to the control arm.

The need to replace the upper balljoint.

Ball joint replacement has evolved from replacing entire control arms to replacing individual ball joints due to aftermarket availability. You may be able to replace an individual ball joint for your specific year and model vehicle, even if the manufacturer has not addressed the procedure. Check with your local auto parts store for availability. A special ball joint removal/installer tool is necessary for this process and can typically be obtained from an auto parts store or tool rental business.