OEM vs Aftermarket Ball Joints
227,981
Published 2016-12-12
A ball joint is a suspension component that is used where three-axis rotation is required. Normally it would connect the control arms to the steering knuckle of the car. On a McPherson front suspension setup, there is one lower ball joint, while on a double wishbone front suspension setup, there's an upper and lower ball joint.
As a result, ball joints can wear down over time and have to be replaced. Failure to replace it can lead to the suspension dismembering itself, and the wheel to come apart from the vehicle.
This video opens up an OEM ball joint and an aftermarket and takes a look at the differences in components inside. The OEM ball joints typically use a metal ball stud with a plastic bearing, while the aftermarket ball joint use a metal stud with a sintered metal bearing.
However, the OEM ball joints are typically sealed, non serviceable components, while the aftermarket ball joints come with a grease fitting. A sintered metal bearing must be periodically greased for it to outlast an OEM ball joint.
Differences in the material, construction, dimensions, coating and design are also discussed in this comparison.
All Comments (21)
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To add to the video, the advantages of plastic ball joint bearings are: - lighter - less friction - less noise - no maintenance required The advantage to sintered ball joint bearings are: - durable - longer lasting when greased - not affected by contamination as fast as plastic - porous bearing encases lubricant
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Fantastic. Zero wasted time, straight to the meat, great editing and scripting. Excellent work!
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Until now, I had a hard time visualizing the inner working of a ball joint. Thanks for this awesome and informative video!
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That's what I'm talkin' about...great insight on what the heck a part actually consists of & how it thoroughly operates.
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Great video and nice comparison between OE and aftermarket. Straight to the point. Subscribed.
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Awesome video! You just earned a new subscriber. Straight to the point with accurate and unbiased info. 👍🏼👌🏼🙏
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Would have thought the OEM would have been better but thanks to you now I know better.Speedkar said plastic cups don't last as long👊from England🇬🇧
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Great video. As many have said, straight to the point, awesome editing and very informative. Thank you!
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And while your enjoying your new grinder, I'm really enjoying your videos! So I'll stay tuned.
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Great video. In my experience the aftermarket dust boots don't last as long as OEM. This is significant to the longevity of the ball joint. I have also found that non serviceable ball joints may still need additional grease which I add through a needle attachment for my grease gun and insert it through the gap between the boot and ball joint stud.
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Very good informative video, clear and to the point. Excellent, two thumbs up...
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Another very informative video. Thanks!
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Great content. Very unique. Keep it up!
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Great explanation and demonstration. Great info! Thank you.
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another solid video, keep up the great work man! looking forward to the steering rack vid.
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Very unique, you man earned my very deep respect!
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Great video very informative
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In the snow too. Props to you my guy
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Quick and informative ! Thank u
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Excellent information
