I replaced my lower ball joints today non to soon! Friday night when my wife and I went out to eat, I turned into the eatery and we both felt a "clunk" and it felt like I ran over one of those road turtles....only none was there. So, we went in to eat, drove home (slowly) and never felt it again. Alison told me when she had her '73 Satellite (before we met), same thing happened to it, only it failed. So, after finding a place localy that had the lowers in stock , I was able to change them today. Sure enough, the passenger side joint was ready to go. I could almost pull the stud out! So, please, everybody check your front end! That clunk could be telling you something....besides worn bushings. If that sucker let loose while driving 70 over all the expansion joints along I-5 through Seattle....

Yes, good tip. this should be done regularly when car is up
for oil change. i also check the tie rods, shift linkage grommets,
brake lines, fuel lines, upper control arm bushing, shock absorber

i made a check list and bring it with me while i am under the car
so i dont skip anything.