How can you tell when you need to change your ball joints?

[ukdal1]

I know there are some good articles on HOW to change them, but how do you know when it's time? I have a 98 5.0 with 120k........

 

[SuRrEaLNJ]

Jack the vehicle up, grab the wheel at the 12 and 6 o clock positions and try to rock the wheel in and out. if it dosnt move then your ok. If it does move then you either have hub or ball joint play. at this point having someone rock the wheel while you observe whats moving would be benificial

 

[jlsparky7]

Check out the link in my sig. Ball joint vid in there.

 

[bluestream1]

Jack up the vehicle under the control arm. If not you will not be able to judge the free play

 

[ThePhoenix]

plus, if truck is squeaking badly on turns....