Minor play in lower ball joints.

[Mikecivic78]

I've noticed some minor play in my lower ball joints.


I have 3 quesions for you fellas...

-Is this something that wil affect overall performance of the car?
-And does this require immediate action? (if it does, is it an easy DIY?)

[bennjamin]

lower ball joints- shouldnt have any real play at all. The Nut underneath , should be 49-59NM. Are the boots leaking ?!

[mocchi]

define minor play.

[Mikecivic78]

Let me re-iterate.

I just got my timing belt done and I asked the mechanic to do a suspension check. He said there was minor play in the lower ball joints. I cannot define it as I have just been told this. I didn't check it myself, I'm relaying what I was told.

I do not see any leaks from the boots, and I haven't checked the torque on the nut. Benn, you say 49-59nm. I am confused by this as it's not a specific torque, but a range between 10nm.

[mocchi]

you torque to about 50nm, then torque up to align hole in bolt with castle nut.
torque them up until hole is aligned so you can insert cotter pin.

hence the 10nm range. do not torque down.

depending on play, i wouldnt worry about it.

[Mikecivic78]

Thanks Mocchi.

Apparently the play is only very minor, hopefully it doesn't need attention as I've just spent a fair bit on the car maintainance wise.