Visually inspect the ball joint dust boots and steering gear guards for cracks, tears, or abrasions. Any wear on these parts will result in loss of lubrication, allow dirt and water to enter, resulting in rapid wear of the ball joints or steering gear (see fig. 1.15-1.17).
On vehicles with power steering, check the condition of the hoses and their connections.
Shake the wheel in the vertical and horizontal planes to determine the play. If there is play, determine the source of the play. Continue pumping the wheel while the assistant presses the foot brake. If the play disappears or decreases significantly, it is likely that the hub bearings are worn. If the play does not change when the brake pedal is pressed, then there is wear in the suspension elements.
If there is play in the horizontal plane, wear of the tie rod ball joints is possible.
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