GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement Torsion Bar Suspension

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
  3. Remove the lower control arm. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement.
  4. Place the lower control arm in a bench vice.
  5. Using a chisel, remove the securing crimps from the ball joint body, if equipped.
  6. Using a press, remove the ball joint from the lower control arm.

Installation Procedure

    Important: Use the outer flange of the ball joint in order to press the ball joint into place.

  1. Install the new ball joint using a press.
  2. Place the lower control arm in a bench vice.
  3. Using a punch, install crimps to the ball joint, if necessary. Use the replaced ball joint as a reference.
  4. Install the lower control arm. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement.
  5. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
  6. Remove the safety stands.
  7. Lower the vehicle.
  8. Verify the wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement.