Ball Joint Rotation Checking
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Lexus IS 300, 2003 Lexus IS 300, and 2002 Lexus IS 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Inspect ball joints for wear. Move ball joint fully back and forth 5 times. Install nut and use torque wrench to rotate. Turn nut continuously at one turn every 2-4 seconds and read torque on fifth turn. Replace ball joint if rotating torque exceeds specification or there is unusual resistance or looseness. See BALL JOINT ROTATING TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table.
BALL JOINT ROTATING TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | INCH Lbs. (N.m) |
|---|---|
| Lower Ball Joint | .4-26 (.5-3) |
| Stabilizer Bar Link Ball Joint | .4-16 (.05-1.9) |
| Upper Ball Joint | 9-30 (1.0-3.4) |