I am replacing clutch. So, while I am waiting on parts, I wanted to test my control arm bushings and ball joints for excessive wear. What is the best and easiest way?

 

Bushings can be checked with the wheels off the ground and a long (2-3 ft) prybar. Check the bushings visually for obvious defects such as tears. Use the pry bar to push/pull in all 4 directions on each bushing - they should be stiff with little give (1/8” max travel).

The lower ball joints need to be checked with the wheel off the ground and a jack stand under the steering knuckle. Rock the tire top to bottom to check play - if you can feel any play at all they need to be replaced, but first verify it’s the ball joint and not the wheel bearing by having a helper observe the knuckle for movement. The upper ball joints can be checked at the same time and in the same way.

 

You can use that pry bar to apply pressure under the bottom of the tire and just jounce the bar up and down and look for the ball joint play. You can also look at the bushings at the same time as well as the way @Gumby22 said. When you get the vehicle back on the ground and engine running again, have a friend move the steering wheel between 9 and 3 back and forth and watch for play at the tie rods and idler/pitman arm areas. You can also check ball joint play again this way as well as bushing play.

 

Thanks to all! Will do!