Ball Joint question

[Feltman]

I have just rebuilt my control arms (81, coupe) and now ready to install the upper and lower ball joints. The original ball joints were riveted in, replacements use bolts, lock washers and nuts.

My shop manual tells me to install the bolts from the bottom of the upper ball joint so the lockwasher and nut is on top. I cannot find the torque values for the bolt/nut. Also a question on the lower ball joint. Since the shop manual does not state which way the bolts should be, plus no torque value. Can someone answer my questions, or give me a reference. Beers on me!

 

[bill81vette]

reply to ball joint question

after refering to the haynes manual that i have ...the lower ball joint the only reference it states is that the 'special thick headed bolt supplied must be installed on the forward side of the control arm.' it doesnt say which way the bolts should be,up or down. as far as the torques go...it says that balljoint attaching bolt(repair kit)..is..25 ft-lbs. that doesnt sound like much does it???
perhaps some of the other forum members who have done this might know better??? hope this helps

beers :bar
bill

 

[Yoda]

I'm not exactly sure we are talking about the same thing... but from my 1981 GM Shop, Section 3C-17 Front Suspension:

Lower Ball Joint Inspection and Replacement:

3. Tighten nut a installed and observe torque reading. If less than 60N.m (45 lbs. ft.), stud may have been loose in steering knuckle and replacement of both lower ball joints may be recommended.

4. Check to see if torque of 80-130 N.m (60-94 lbs. ft.) can be obtained without bottoming stud or ball joint against knuckle. If bottoming occurs, replace ball joint or steering knuckle.

If you have the GM Shop Manual, check section (Chapter) 3 for a very detailed instruction for the upper and lower control arm check and/or replacement.

 

[vettenick]

25 ft lbs is the correct spec for the ball joint to the upper arm.