Replacing ball joints (Mercedes-Benz S-Class W116)

The upper and lower ball joints consist of a ball pin and a synthetic liner. The lower ball joint housing is pressed into the steering knuckle, the upper ball joint is fixed in the upper wishbone. The ball joints are filled with grease, which ensures their operation for their entire service life, and therefore do not require maintenance. Protective covers that prevent dirt and sand from getting in are of great importance to ensure flawless operation of the ball joints. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly check the condition of the ball joints. Damaged protective covers must be replaced. A ball joint that has been operating for a long time with a damaged protective cover must be replaced. A damaged upper ball joint is replaced together with the upper wishbone. The ball pin can be checked using a 150 mm long pipe section, which is placed on the joint and moved evenly in the forward and reverse directions. If there is a large gap or a grinding sound occurs during movement, the ball joint must be replaced. Pressing in the ball joint housing is only possible at a service station. It is easier to remove the wishbone and replace it together with the ball joint (section 13.8).

Removal and installation transverse suspension arms

Removing and installing the wishbone is closely related to removing and installing the front suspension half and removing and installing the steering knuckle. After reading the relevant sections, this work will not cause any difficulties.