One can check the lower ball joint by disconnecting it to the knuckle or spindle, shaking and rotating the ball joint stud several times. Connect the appropriate pull scale to the stud and test the preload; the values are expected to be 4.4-7.7 lbs in the case of 323, Protege, MX-3, 1990-92 626/MX-6, and 0.7-6.6 lbs in the case of Millenia. In case the readings do not fall within these specifications, then one can replace the ball joint or lower
Control Arm when required. To remove and install, be aware that the bottom ball joint of model other than MX-3, 323, Protege, and Millenia, is fixed to the bottom arm and is not replaceable independently, should it be faulty, the arm has to be replaced as a whole. In the case of MX-3, 323, Protege, and Millenia, loosen the car, support it, and then unscrew the wheel and the tire, then loosen the ball joint stud pinch bolt and nut of the
Steering Knuckle. Unscrew the lower control arm to disconnect the knuckle and the ball joint and loosen the bolt and nut to unscrew the ball joint to the lower control arm. Installation is in the opposite sequence of removal, making sure the ball joint-to-lower control arm bolt and nut are tightened to 86ft. lbs., that the ball joint pinch bolt and nut are tightened to 43ft. lbs., and that the front wheel is aligned.