GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Cadillac 🢒 2001 🢒 Catera 🢒 Suspension 🢒 Front Suspension 🢒 Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Object Number: 143166 Size: SH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the front tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Remove the lower control arm. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement .
  4. Use a 13 mm (0.5 in) drill to drill out the three rivet heads that fasten the ball stud to the lower control arm.
  5. Remove the ball stud from the lower control arm.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 143168 Size: SH
  1. Install a replacement ball stud to the lower control arm.

    2. Important: Insert the bolts from the upper side of the lower control arm.

  2. Install the replacement ball stud bolts.

    3. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the replacement ball stud locking nuts.

    4. Tighten
    Tighten the replacement ball stud bolts to 35 N·m (26 lb ft).

  4. Install the lower control arm. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement .
  5. Install the front tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  6. Lower the vehicle.
  7. Adjust the wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment.