Control Arms, Ball Joints & Assemblies
About Control Arms, Ball Joints & Assemblies
A ball joint is the pivot that connects a control arm to the steering knuckle, so the wheel can turn and move up and down at once. When one wears, steering feels loose, the machine wanders or clunks, and the tires wear unevenly. The listings sampled here are ball joints, offered as upper, lower or upper and lower parts, plus a few kits.
Match the position first: upper, lower, or a listing that covers both. Then match the machine, since ball joints are specific to make, model and years, such as Honda, Can-Am, Polaris or Yamaha. Some listings are labeled heavy duty, and the description should say what the maker changed. On some machines the ball joint presses into the arm, on others it bolts in, which decides the tools you need. Check the dust boot on the old part, as a torn boot lets dirt in.
Brands in this category include EPI, All Balls, Moose Offroad and Demon Powersports. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. When a ball joint is worn, look at the parts it works with: Tie Rods & Steering Linkages, Steering Knuckles and A-Arms & Swingarms. The group is in Steering & Suspension.
FAQs on UTV and ATV ball joints
What does a bad ball joint feel like on a UTV or ATV?
Typical signs are loose or wandering steering, a clunk over bumps or when turning, and a wheel that has play at the top or bottom when you rock it with the machine supported. Uneven tire wear can also point to a worn ball joint. Check it against your service manual.
Are upper and lower ball joints interchangeable?
Not always. Some listings cover upper and lower together, while others are for one position only, and the parts can differ in size or fit. Use the position stated in the listing and confirm that your machine's make, model and year are named.
Do I need an alignment after replacing ball joints?
Check the alignment after replacing ball joints or any steering part. Changing a joint can shift wheel position, so confirm toe and the other settings in your service manual. A machine that pulls or wears tires unevenly after the job needs another check.
Should ball joints be replaced in pairs?
It is usually wise to replace the joints on both sides of the same axle together, since both have done the same work. If you are replacing one, inspect the other side for play and a torn boot, and check the tie rod ends at the same time.
What does heavy duty mean on a ball joint listing?
Heavy duty is the maker's label for a part built to take more load or abuse than the standard one. The listing description should say what is different. Confirm the fit for your machine, because a heavy duty part must still be the right size and position.
