Toyota 48625-04050 Front Right Lower Ball Joint Attachment

Inspect the upper and lower balljoints for looseness whenever the vehicle is raised for any reason by first raising the front of the vehicle and securely supporting it on jackstands. Clean the balljoints and check the seals for cuts and tears; if a seal is damaged, it can be replaced by removing the wire clip and pulling it off the joint, followed by replacing any lost grease and carefully reassembling the components. For the lower balljoint, with the vehicle raised and the lower control arm supported by a floor jack, attach a dial indicator to the lower control arm, ensuring the plunger touches the steering knuckle. Apply about 65 pounds of force up and down on the brake disc while checking the dial indicator for play; if there is more than 0.020-inch of play, replace the suspension arm. If a dial indicator is unavailable, feel for play when applying pressure to the brake disc and replace the suspension arm if any play is detected. For the upper balljoint, with the vehicle raised and supported by the frame, pry up and down on the upper control arm to feel for play; significant play indicates the need for a suspension arm replacement. Balljoints should also be checked when separated from the steering knuckle or control arms by attempting to turn the ballstud in its socket; if it is loose, replace the balljoint or suspension arm. For a more accurate bench test, flip the balljoint stud back and forth five times, install the nut, and measure the turning torque with an inch-pound torque wrench, turning the nut continuously at a rate of one turn every two to four seconds. On the fifth turn, compare the indicated torque to the acceptable range; if it falls outside this range, the balljoint is worn out.