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Front Ball Joint: Inspection

  1. Measure the play of ball joint by the following procedures. Replace with a new one when the play exceeds specified value.
    1. With 686 N (70 kgf, 154 lb) loaded in direction shown in the figure, measure the dimension l 1
      Fig 1: Identifying Ball Joint Play Dimension (1 Of 2)
      G03808098Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    2. With 686 N (70 kgf, 154 lb) loaded in direction shown in the figure, measure the dimension l 2 .
      Fig 2: Identifying Ball Joint Play Dimension (2 Of 2)
      G03808099Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
    3. Calculate plays from the following formula. S= l 2 - l 1
    4. When plays are larger than the specified value, replace with a new one.

      FRONT BALL JOINT 

      Specified play for replacement: 

      S 

      Less than 0.3 mm (0.012 in) 

  2. When the play is smaller than specified value, visually inspect the dust cover.
  3. The ball joint and cover that have been removed must be checked for wear, damage or cracks, and any defective part must be replaced.
  4. If the dust cover is damaged, replace with a new ball joint.
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