Chassis Lubrication

Why: Broken Ball Joint, probably caused by lack of regular lubrication.

What: Grease is a lubricant which prevents metal to metal contact between moving parts. It is made up of mineral oils and additives for high temperatures resistance, adhesion, chemical stability and protection against rust and corrosion.

What: Grease fittings have a one- way spring-loaded check valve that allows grease in but not out. Also known as zerk fittings.

When: Chassis lubrication is something that should be done during an oil change service or safety inspection. Important: not all vehicles have grease fittings.

Where: Locate all of the lubrication points on your specific vehicle and wipe them clean with a rag. This prevents dirt from entering the grease fitting and holding open the check valve, which will allow grease to leak out. Common suspension parts that have grease fittings would be ball joints, tie rod ends, idler arms, and center links.

How: The tip of the zerk fitting has a ball and groove setup that allows your grease gun to seal to the fitting. It is important just to put enough grease into the joint to cause the boot to expand slightly.

You have gone too far when grease begins to leak out of the joint. If the boots are already broken, add enough grease until you see the old grease leaving the joint. The whole process from Eric the car guyThe whole process from Eric the car guy…