Leading Link (Front Upper)

1. Remove snap pin, then upper leading ball joint nut, Fig. 21.
2. Remove upper leading link ball joint using ball joint puller set tool No. 49 T028 3A0, or equivalent. Sharp edges of ball joint puller tool can slice dust boot. Install tool so sharp edges are between dust boot and knuckle. Inspect ball joint as follows:
a. Inspect ball joint link for damage and boot cracks. Replace as necessary.
b. Inspect ball joint for looseness and replace as necessary.
c. Shake ball joint stud at least five times.
d. Connect suitable preload measuring attachment to ball joint stud and measure rotation torque using suitable spring scale. Rotation torque should be 3 - 26 in.lb. Scale reading should be 0.7 - 6.6 lbs. If not within specifications, replace upper lateral link.

3. Remove upper leading link and inspect for damage and cracks. Inspect bushing for damage and wear.
4. Carefully remove upper leading link dust boot with suitable chisel.
5. Reverse procedure to install. Wipe grease off ball stud before installing lower ball joint dust boot, then fill inside of new dust boot with grease. Press boot onto ball joint using dust boot installer tool No. 49 T034 201, or equivalent, and wipe off any excess grease.

Fig. 21 Upper Leading Link Replacement: