Front lower ball joint (right/left) designed for select 1981–1997 Kia, Mazda, and Mercury vehicles. This replacement ball joint secures the lower control arm to the steering knuckle, maintaining proper suspension alignment and steering responsiveness. Constructed for durability and reliable service life, it reduces play and vibration while protecting against premature wear. Ideal for restoring factory handling, improving tire wear, and completing suspension repairs or restorations.
Features:
- Fits 1981–1997 Kia, Mazda, and Mercury models (front lower, right or left hand)
- Precision-forged hardened steel stud and housing for long-lasting strength
- Protective dust boot and corrosion-resistant finish help block contaminants
- Pre-lubricated or greaseable design (model dependent) for smooth operation
- Restores steering stability, reduces vibration, and improves tire life
- Direct-fit replacement for suspension repair and restoration projects
Installation / Application:
- Difficulty: 3/5
- Estimated time: 60-120 minutes
Instructions:
- Park on a level surface, engage parking brake, and block rear wheels.
- Loosen front wheel lug nuts slightly, then raise the vehicle with a jack and secure with jack stands.
- Remove the front wheel to access the lower control arm and knuckle.
- Apply penetrating oil to fasteners and let soak if rusted or tight.
- Remove any cotter pins and loosen/note the torque settings, then remove the castle nut or retaining nut from the ball joint stud.
- Separate the ball joint stud from the steering knuckle using a ball joint separator (pickle fork) or press; support the control arm to prevent sudden movement.
- If the ball joint is pressed in, use a ball joint press to remove the old unit from the control arm housing.
- Clean mounting surfaces on the control arm and steering knuckle. Inspect surrounding components (control arm bushings, tie rods, etc.) and replace if needed.
- Press the new ball joint into the control arm (or install per vehicle-specific method) until fully seated. Ensure orientation and fit are correct.
- Install the ball joint stud into the steering knuckle, tighten the retaining nut to the vehicle manufacturer's specified torque, and install a new cotter pin if required.
- If applicable, grease the ball joint via the grease fitting until boot is slightly distended; some units are pre-lubricated and do not require additional greasing.
- Reinstall the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts to specification.
- Test drive at low speed to verify steering and suspension function. Have a wheel alignment performed after replacement to ensure proper tire wear and alignment.
About Redline Select
Redline Restomotive® has established itself as a premier brand in the world of classic car restoration, providing enthusiasts with high-quality parts that meet the exacting standards of original manufacturer specifications. Dedicated to the preservation of American automotive history, Redline Restomotive® combines advanced manufacturing techniques with an in-depth understanding of vintage vehicles. The result is a range of products that seamlessly blend into the design and function of classic cars, giving restorers and collectors the assurance that each part reflects the era’s style, quality, and performance.
Redline Select® is our premium line of steering and suspension products for all vehicle makes and models including both North American and Import vehicles. We have partnered with an ISO 9001/QS9000/TS16949 certified manufacturing facility with more than 40 years of experience in producing components that perform to the standards our customers expect. Our steering and suspension parts are backed by multiple quality control checks along the way—during production, prior to shipping from the factory, and at arrival. With our ISO 9001:2015 certification, we observe the world’s highest standards for quality management.
Vehicle Fitment:
The Vehicle Fitment Guide is to be used as a general reference. The data has been provided by our suppliers and manufacturers and may contain errors or incorrect data. Always refer to a professional to verify correct fitment for your vehicle.
| Make |
Model |
Years |
| Kia |
Sephia |
1994 - 1997 |
| Mazda |
323 |
1986 - 1989 |
| Mazda |
GLC |
1981 - 1985 |
| Mercury |
Capri |
1991 - 1994 |
| Mercury |
Tracer |
1987 - 1989 |
