The SAFE way to check for play in suspension?

[Jason_25]

Guys I need to know to exactly how to test for what in my front end is clunking and squeaking. But I need to do all this safely. Every time I jack my truck up to do something, I don't feel safe around it. Is there really any way to do this short of putting it on a lift? I want to be able to check myself but I can't think of any way to do it. I will go out and buy any tool necessary, just let me know what I need to do it and exactly how to do it.

Thanks.

 

[X24]

Well, when checking most things in the front end, you have to jack it up in a way that it will be the same as it is on the ground, but with the wheels off the ground. So, jacking it up by the front cross member will not work. Jacking it up by that little jack hook on the lower a-arm doesnt really work that well either. (Ford should have put it closer to the wheel). You have to find a place on the lower a-arm to put the jack that will not damage anything and will be somewhat safe. I dont feel safe when my truck is on jacks either. Just stand clear and dont get under it. If it falls, it falls, but it wont fall on you. You dont really have to get under it to check for front end play anyway. Just grab the wheel on the top and bottom and shake it to check the ball joints and grab the sides and shake it to check the steering.