Tro209

Hey guys,

As the title states, I wanna know whats the proper way to check the ball joints on a 06 RWD IS350. I was under the impression that you would just jack up the car and push on the tires and see if there is any play but I just saw anothwler video where a guy was jacking up his truck by the Lower control arm instead claiming that its the right way to do it?

It may be a dumb question sorry, but thanks for any of your help.

Gville350

iTrader: (10)

Well, the way I'd check mine is by visually inspecting them for cracking/tears/leaks. If any of these are present, time for a replacement.

But I do have to say that I doubt the ball joints are your squeaking/squealing problem.

Tro209

Yeah I doubt it too but some one mentioned that on my other thread. My friend checked for me the first time but now im just wondering if maybe he didnt check properly? I mean what do I know im not a mechanic lol. Thats why I figured I should ask, you know just in case.

jjc250

IIRC, the first method you mentioned is to check if your tie rod end is bad. But either way see if you can visually check it first.

Soledad

The way I've always checked for bad ball joints is like this (in addition to checking for torn boots):

Jack the vehicle up at the normal jack point to get the tire off the ground. Grab the tire at the Noon and 6pm positions and try to rock the wheel back and forth. If you hear a clunk it could be bearings/hub or ball joints. Next jack the vehicle up far enough to put a crow bar or 2x4 or pipe or what ever under the tire and lift up on it and listen for a clunk or have some one look to see if you get movement at the ball joint. There should be no movement.

For checking tie rods I've always jacked up the vehicle, grabbed the tire at the 9pm and 3pm positions and rocked the wheel back and forth.

Funny enough I just bought a Ford Ranger and have all 3 issues; bad bearings, bad ball joints and bad tie rods.

srt1

^ This is correct. Real simple and anyone can do this. Ball joints are also easy install just takes time.
Soledad you're on point my man!