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Resolving Slider Upper ball joint failure on dodge/ram trucks & jeep suvs

The Problem

ram-oe-design-ball-joint

Premature slider (or telescoping) ball joint failures are a common occurrence on many late model Dodge and RAM trucks and Jeep SUVs equipped with a 9.25" axle. The OE ball joints are not greaseable, which can increase the rate at which they wear. As the ball joint wears, looseness develops in the socket. Vertical movement of the stud is normal, but once radial movement (side-to-side or back-and-forth play) exceeds manufacturer specifications, it’s time to replace the ball joint.

When upper slider ball joint replacement is necessary, the installation procedure puts significant stress on the upper ball joint housing, as the upper and lower ball joints may not align perfectly. The OE upper ball joint design deforms to compensate for this misalignment, which leads to severe wear from impact loads that occur throughout normal driving conditions.

The Solution

A proven solution to this problem, the MOOG® Problem Solver upper slider ball joint design improves durability and minimizes radial play. It has a patented all-metal bowl design that compensates for suspension component misalignment through a unique rotational pivot (stud swinging movement), and a patented closure method that minimizes radial deflection. In addition, they use a premium neoprene boot with a built-in grease-relief valve, providing a sealed, serviceable part able to flush contamination.

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moog-ball-joint-cutaway-drawing-with-callouts
  1. Greaseable design makes lubrication service easier, contributing to longer component life.
  2. Patented pressed-in cover plate virtually eliminates excess axial and radial movement to deliver solid steering feel for the life of the part.
  3. Gusher bearing and pressure cup stands up to impact.
  4. Spherical bearing for smooth rotation and articulation.

MOOG Slider Upper Ball Joints

moog-k7460-upper-ball-joint-ram-trucks
Part NumberLocationYear
Make/Model
K3134TFront Upper1994-2001Ram 1500
1994-1999Ram 2500
1984-1992Jeep Cherokee
1986-1992Jeep Comanche
1993-2004Jeep Grand Cherokee
1984-1990Jeep Wagoneer
1987-1995Jeep Wrangler YJ
1997-2006Jeep Wrangler TJ
2007-2018Jeep Wrangler JK
K7394Front Upper2000-2002Ram 2500/3500
K7460Front Upper2006-2008Ram 1500
2003-2018Ram 2500/3500
K500316 Front Upper2006-2008Ram 1500
2003-2022Ram 2500/3500
K500138Front Upper2008-2018Ram 4500/5500

K100056 (Offset) 

&

K100312 (Offset)

Front Upper1994-2001Ram 1500
1994-1996Ram 2500
1984-2001Jeep Cherokee
1993-2004Jeep Grand Cherokee
1987-2018Jeep Wrangler
1984-1990Jeep Wagoneer
1986-1992Jeep Comanche
1993Jeep Grand Wagoneer

K100057 (Offset) 

&

K100315 (Offset)

Front Upper2006-2008Ram 1500
2003-2022Ram 2500/3500


Learn more about premium steering and suspension parts, find your car part, or find where to buy your auto part today.

The content contained in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice from a certified technician or mechanic. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein. Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.

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