Im am in the process of changing my upper ball joints because they were worn out but i am starting to wonder if my lowers are too? My lowers can move around easily but there is no like slack in the joint like the uppers. Also i noticed with the tires on only the upper joints were able to move when i pried on them. So are my lowers worn out to or is there ability to move normal or should they be stiff

 

i was able to get greasable uppers from napa but i cant find greasable lowers and at this point i really do not want to put any more money into a dana 30 before going to a 60 this summer

 

So does that mean the lowers are supposed to be tight?

 

The lower joints are checked for vertical play.
The upper joints are checked for horizontal play. The uppers can move vertically by design.

Here are the limits:

Radial (side-to-side) movement in the upper ball joint should not exceed 0.060" (1.5mm).

Axial (up and down) movement in the lower ball joint should not exceed 0.050" (1.25mm).

Here is how to check (for those who want to know):

A dial indicator is the best instrument to measure ball joint play.

Jack the front tire off the ground.
Place a jack stand under the axle next to the jack.
Lower to put some weight on the jack stand.
Place a long pry bar under the tire, from the side.
Have someone pry the tire up and down while you watch the lower ball joint for up and down play.
Axial (up and down) movement in the lower ball joint should not exceed 0.050"

Have someone grab the tire at top and bottom to wiggle the top in and out while you watch the upper joint for side play.
Radial (side-to-side) movement in the upper ball joint should not exceed 0.060"

Even if the upper joint checks good, change both if the lower checks bad.

Here is a link to how they are made:

https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/show...-Study-Results