In this video, I show you how to replace the ball joint boots in an FD RX-7. Subscribe / @adamswrenchtherapy Facebook: / adamswrenchtherapy Instagram: / adamswrenchtherapy
Most of the ball joint wear actually comes from the spring material. Whether it be an actual spring mechanism or a plastic housing within the arm joint itself, the wear of that material will cause play within the joint. It's not often that contaminants cause premature wear, or at least not nearly as much as everyday movement.
You are correct. It's not often that contaminants cause premature wear, because most ball joints don't have torn and damaged boots. The ones that do have damaged boots can't stay lubricated either, which also causes premature failure. You're more likely to damage a ball joint from hitting a pothole/everyday use than contaminants. At the end of the day, I think it would be best to replace the boots if they're damaged. Still a lot less expensive than needing to buy a whole control arm. 🙂
Excellent tutorial !
Thank you!
Most of the ball joint wear actually comes from the spring material. Whether it be an actual spring mechanism or a plastic housing within the arm joint itself, the wear of that material will cause play within the joint. It's not often that contaminants cause premature wear, or at least not nearly as much as everyday movement.
You are correct. It's not often that contaminants cause premature wear, because most ball joints don't have torn and damaged boots. The ones that do have damaged boots can't stay lubricated either, which also causes premature failure. You're more likely to damage a ball joint from hitting a pothole/everyday use than contaminants. At the end of the day, I think it would be best to replace the boots if they're damaged. Still a lot less expensive than needing to buy a whole control arm. 🙂