how to test ball joints

[jrey09]

i'm looking at front suspension issues. front shocks are new. as described in my previous post, I am seeing my tires cupping from inner surface. was wondering how I can test for possible bad ball joints to explain tires or maybe it was my leaking shocks/struts/coil overs. for some reason I don't trust the stealership, but when they replaced my shocks they stated that otherwise the supension looks good.
ocassionally i feel a slight "rattle" on the steering wheel when going downhill.

 

[James909]

Jack the front of the truck up. Grab each tire at the 12 and 6 o'clock position. Try and rock the tire and feel for play. Any noticeable play is too much and the ball joints are worn.

 

[fsumotorhead]

The control arms have to be loaded, jack one side up at a time by the lower control arm, or set both control arm on jackstands. Unless they are waaay wasted, or you are uber strong, you will most likely need a prybar between the tire and pavement to lift up and check the joints