MOOG Follower Ball Joint Innovations

Loaded vs Unloaded Ball Joints

Ball joints come in two different designs: load-carrying and follower (unloaded). In a MacPherson strut suspension system, the lower ball joint is a follower design, while in SLA (short long arm) suspension systems the upper ball joint is a follower design.

Since follower ball joints don’t bear the vehicle’s weight, they aren’t as likely to wear out as quickly as load-bearing ball joints. However, they’re still subject to wear from radial loads, impacts, vibration, contaminants, corrosive elements, heat, and other conditions.

MOOG® Follower Ball Joints

For steering and suspension systems to function properly, components must withstand harsh driving conditions. That’s why MOOG never stops innovating to make ball joints better. MOOG engineers its’ follower ball joints to endure whatever the road dishes out. That means developing application-specific, purpose-suited enhancements to resist wear, improve performance and extend service life.

Preinstalled Dust Boot

Made from premium materials, the preinstalled boot protects socket components from wear-causing contaminants.

Metal Dust Boot Collar

Holds the boot securely in place to reduce stretching and tearing.

Heat-Treated Studs

Induction-hardened studs improve fatigue strength, resist fracturing and minimize friction.

Greaseable Socket

Threaded hole provides easy grease fitting installation. Adding grease extends service life of the joint by refreshing bearing lubricant and flushing contaminants.

Problem Solver Gusher Bearing

Lets grease flow easily through bearing surface to reduce friction and prolong service life.

Continuous Innovation for Easy Installation

MOOG’s new follower ball joints include a unique innovation which makes installation easier. Unlike our previous design, new MOOG follower ball joints do not need to be oriented for stud swing. This is because they provide the same amount of stud swing in all directions.

If your MOOG follower ball joint includes a warning/orientation tag and the part has an alignment mark (such as flats or punched/drilled holes) on the flange, this is an old design which must be oriented according to the orientation tag instructions. If the MOOG ball joint does not include an orientation tag or alignment mark, then it can be oriented in any direction providing trouble-free installation. This is possible due to an innovative no-compromises socket design.

Tested for Excellence

When it’s time to make a repair, you can count on tested, proven MOOG Problem Solver follower ball joints. MOOG ball joint designs are extensively tested to ensure optimal performance and durability in harsh real-world conditions.

• STUD DROP TESTING to ensure integrity during impacts.
• LOAD TESTING to ensure durability under repeated stress.
• ULTIMATE STRENGTH TESTING to ensure integrity of materials, heat treat and design throughout operating conditions.
• DUST BOOT DURABILITY to ensure performance in varying environmental conditions.

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.