How Mazda Ball Joints Work

Anthony Fontanelle
September 27, 2007

What is a Mazda Ball Joint? It is a part of the car's wheel system that serve as the pivot between the wheels and the suspension. Mazda Ball joints are thus quite important in ensuring that the car runs smoothly and safely. Steering and suspension are, after all, directly affected. These components are often present in a number of linkage assemblies for motion control operations. But they should not be taken in the same line as spherical rod end bearings—which, of course, sport a different structural design.

A Mazda Ball Joint consists entirely of a steel bearing stud with a socket enclosed in a steel casing. Tapered and threaded, the bearing stud fits, in turn, into a tapered hole located in the steering knuckle. The case that serves as a protective coating keeps dirt particles out, preventing any from undermining the defenses of the joint assembly.

On the other hand, there is another type of ball bearing like those that work specially well as motion control agents. These are ball joints that are commonly packed with an internal spring. This keeps vibration problems in the linkage from springing. Mazda Ball Joints of this sort are, more often than not, found in the throttle linkages of a car as well as in the throttle body setup.

Incidentally, it is a good idea to inspect ball joints for looseness or wear whenever they are lubricated. Some auto makers specify ball joint inspection at regular intervals as part of periodic maintenance to ensure that the car remains in tip-top condition.WKeep in mind that when lubricating front suspension ball joints, make sure that the grease reaches all friction surfaces. This is most easily done by moving the wheel from side to side while applying the lubricant. Generally, the weight-carrying ball joint should be unloaded to improve the flow of the said lubricant.

Source:  Amazines.com