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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 straight or solid 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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  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 Front Upper Ball Joints

moog-k7460-upper-ball-joint-ram-trucks
Part Number Year
Make/Model
K3134T 1994-2001 Ram 1500
1994-1999 Ram 2500
1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee
1986-1992 Jeep Comanche
1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee
1984-1990 Jeep Wagoneer
1993 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
1987-2018 Jeep Wrangler
K7394 2000-2002 Ram 2500/3500
K7460 & K500316 2006-2008 Ram 1500
2003-2022 Ram 2500/3500
K500138 2008-2018 Ram 4500/5500
K100056 (Offset) & K100312 (Offset) 1994-2001 Ram 1500
1994-1996 Ram 2500
1984-2001 Jeep Cherokee
1986-1992 Jeep Comanche
1993-2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee
1984-1990 Jeep Wagoneer
1993 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
1987-2018 Jeep Wrangler
K100057 (Offset)  & K100315 (Offset) 2006-2008 Ram 1500
2003-2022 Ram 2500/3500

Offset ball joints replace OE to provide positive or negative camber/caster change. Consult the MOOG catalog for the latest application coverage.

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

The content in this article is for informational purposes only. You should consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have questions relating to any of the topics covered herein. Tenneco will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.

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