ball joint question....updated 11/15

[oldrusty]

Ok so I adjusted the toe on the old manche tonight and she drives much better. While I had it in the garage I figured Id give the front end a quick checkup. I noticed that I have some up and down movement in the upper ball joints on both times. While pricing the new joints out on the napa website I noticed that the part description reads as follows......Ball joint does not articulate stud only spins. Up and down movement is normal.....My question is.....Is this correct ? And if up and down movement is normal then how much should I have?

[oldrusty]

I went ahead and ordered a new set tonight. I figure if they are moving enough up and down for me to plainly see it then thats too much.

[FxRacing282]

i believe its thirty thousandths for allowable vertical movement. some up and down is okay. its the side to side thats bad.

[oldrusty]

went ahead and replaced both upper and lower balljoints yesterday. I figured with all the miles and two seasons of carrying the snowplow around it couldnt hurt. I also readjusted the toe setting after I was done. And the end result is things are much better now. The old girl drives like a new one again at any speed.....

[Eagle]

Yeah, they appreciate a little TLC from time to time.

[oldrusty]

I guess a a few dollars in parts here and there isnt bad when you consider it takes me back and forth to work almost every day.(70 miles a day) Plus usually makes me $1,500.00 or so every winter. :thumbsup: