Control arm or bearing? How do it tell

[tjp]

I have a 2002 911 (996) Cab. Original owner. 78,000 miles. Over the last few months I have noticed a squeak coming from the front right. Noticable mainly at low speeds. It is now VERY noticable and if I push down on the front right it squeaks. Questions: How can i tell if it is the control arm or a bearing? Are these projects I can tackle myself (my dealer wants $950 for control arm)? If one has gone....do I assume they are all about to go? What other costs given my mileage may I be instore for?

[Loren]

:welcome:

Check the upper strut mounting too. They are known to work loose.

[tjp]

:welcome:

Check the upper strut mounting too. They are known to work loose.

Thanks Loren, I will look at that.

[telegraham]

If you don't mind, tjp, share what you find. My 2000 Cab 4 has the same issue on the same corner.

[tjp]

No problem. I am bringing it in to Porsche next week for a diagnosis. I will let you know.

[telegraham]

My issue appears to be related to the wishbone ball joint. MY03 p/n for the wishbone assembly is 996 341 053 07. I don't know what that p/n crosses to for your MY or my MY00. Also don't know if just the ball joint may be replaced without swapping the larger assembly.

Jim

[fpb111]

Just an FYI.

In early cars 1969 - 73 squeaking ball joints were not uncommon. One fix was to get a syringe and inject about 10cc of ATF into the joint.

This worked for me on multiple cars over the years.

If you have a diabetic friend that injects insulin ask for a used needle. The needles are very small (26-28gage) and you can poke it through the rubber without making a noticeable hole.

[ericinboca]

Vertex sells just the ball joint, but I am not sure how you install it. The factory one is crimped in. I know that you can replace the 944 control arm ball joints with a kit, but it involves a circ clip and epoxy, which I am not certain I would do.

You might want to ask Vertex what is involved in installing a new ball joint and see if you think that is a good way to go. I've always replaced the whole arm - new arm, with new ball joint and two new bushings.

[telegraham]

RockAuto carries the Uro branded replacement control arm (wishbone) (p/n 99634105316) for $81.79. Thoughts?

Thanks.

Jim

Edited April 23, 2011 by telegraham

[telegraham]

fpb111,

The old gear lube and the syringe method did the trick! Good call.

Thank you.

Jim