Destroyed Ball Joints..Need Guidance
JK Super Freak
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 1,103
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From: downingtown, PA
I don't think a lift will effect the ball joints on a solid axle. Wheel spacers might, because of the increased leverage on the joints.
A TSB is provided to the dealer techs to aid in troubleshooting or to bring his attention to a certain condition. TSBs usually say the repair is covered under the provisions of the warranty, which means if the warranty is expired or they decide the condition is not covered, you are out of luck. A recall would be free, though.
A TSB is provided to the dealer techs to aid in troubleshooting or to bring his attention to a certain condition. TSBs usually say the repair is covered under the provisions of the warranty, which means if the warranty is expired or they decide the condition is not covered, you are out of luck. A recall would be free, though.
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 198
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From: Fontana, ca
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 286
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From: Madison, Wisconsin
OK I have to ask as this has me concerned. With my 2 1/2" rough country lift and no wheel spacers, what is my likely hood of having this issue? If i add spacers is it very likely? Sounds like this is a common problem?
Thread Starter
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 119
Likes: 0
From: Arlington, VA
So far, the suggestions for what caused it are great, but could they cause it in just 1500 miles?
My initial intent of this thread was to see if anyone had any solid info on whether or not it is covered by the warranty, or am I at the will of the individual service centers?
My initial intent of this thread was to see if anyone had any solid info on whether or not it is covered by the warranty, or am I at the will of the individual service centers?
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 209
Likes: 0
I dont think your lift or wheel spacers are putting as much stress on your BJs' as your wheels are. Think about it, wheel spacers or offset rims will put extra stress on your wheel bearings and axle. Your tires probably were the cause. 35's are large and heavy. If you have balance issues, or even minor bump steer going on, that will constantly work those BJs'. Is your stabilizer on the front axle in good shape? This component does ease the wear on the BJs' and steering gear in general. Rough Country just came out with a dual front stabilizer which I have ordered. The 35s' go on in two weeks and it will help save the front end immensly.
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 204
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From: Aurora, CO
I also have symptoms of "bad ball joints". This may be a result of excesssive force on the outer knuckles. Check out the March 2009 Four Wheeler mag. It discusses soulutions/ preventative gusset installation to reinforce the "C's" preventing axletube bending.
Off Road Evo has gussets, and BOR has axletube sleeves/gussets.
http://www.offroadevolution.com/stor...cts.php?cat=25
This may not be your problem, but it's worth a look at.
Off Road Evo has gussets, and BOR has axletube sleeves/gussets.
http://www.offroadevolution.com/stor...cts.php?cat=25
This may not be your problem, but it's worth a look at.
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 214
Likes: 2
From: In your internets.
So far, the suggestions for what caused it are great, but could they cause it in just 1500 miles?
My initial intent of this thread was to see if anyone had any solid info on whether or not it is covered by the warranty, or am I at the will of the individual service centers?
My initial intent of this thread was to see if anyone had any solid info on whether or not it is covered by the warranty, or am I at the will of the individual service centers?
Thread Starter
JK Enthusiast
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 119
Likes: 0
From: Arlington, VA
All other, thanks for the comments. I have purchased the teraflex SS, and I will look into the "C" knuckle gussets. Thanks everyone. It is in the service center right now. I think I fould one that would cooperate. It took a little sweet talking, it was a lady at the counter of course.