Front Ball Joint: Inspection

Measure the play of the ball joint using the following procedures. Replace with a new part if the play exceeds specification.
1. With 686 N (70 kgf, 154 lbf) loaded in direction shown in the figure, measure the length l ₁ .
  
  Fig 1: Measuring Play Of Ball Joint
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
2. With 686 N (70 kgf, 154 lbf) loaded in direction shown in the figure, measure the length l ₂ .
  
  Fig 2: Measuring Play Of Ball Joint
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
3. Determine free play using the following formula.
  S = l ₂ - l ₁
4. Replace with a new part if the play exceeds specification.
Front ball joint

Replacement standard S: Less than 0.3 mm (0.012 in)
If the play is within specification, visually check the dust cover.
If the dust cover is damaged, replace with a new ball joint.