Tip for Installing Ball Joints on Subaru Applications

Issue – Rust Buildup Complicates Ball Joint Installation

For decades, Subaru cars, trucks and SUVs have been popular with the car-driving public. With millions of vehicles on the road, many older than 10 years, it is likely that it won’t be long before a Subaru rolls into your repair bay. Replacing ball joints is a common repair job that requires some special considerations for those in snowy climates.

To keep the roads clear of snow, sleet and ice, salt is used in large quantities. However, prolonged exposure to salt and water can cause rust and corrosion not only on the body of the vehicle but on parts that are exposed to the elements. This buildup of rust on the ball joint and knuckle can cause issues when installing MOOG K9513 ball joints for a wide range of Subaru applications.

Engineered to exceed OE quality for durability and service life, MOOG’s replacement ball joint for Subaru models such as the Outback, Forester and Crosstrek features an improved design. A key feature of this enhanced part is the housing length being 1/8" longer than the OE part. The combination of the longer length and rust buildup can lead to technicians thinking that the MOOG part is the wrong one for the application. However, the MOOG K9513 ball joint is the correct part and there is an easy remedy to complete the repair.

Solution – Remove Rust from Knuckle

Removing rust and scale buildup from the knuckle is the best way to ensure that the ball joint fits correctly. Using a wire brush or a small scraper, clean the receiving holes and mating surfaces of the knuckle before installing the ball joint.

Failure to remove any rust that has built up will result in the ball joint not fitting into the knuckle. It is important to remember that this is a result of the rust buildup and not the fault of the MOOG K9513 ball joint. The MOOG ball joint is the correct part for a wide range of Subaru applications.

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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.