Three problems related to front suspension upper ball joint have been reported for the 1998 Dodge Ram 1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
: the contact stated while pulling out from a stop and turning either right or left there was a grinding noise coming from the front of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent repair shop. Both front ball joints and pittman arm were replaced. There is NHTSA recall, # 04v596000, regarding the suspension: upper ball joints. The vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however it is not included in the recall due year, model and VIN.
While driving 20 mph vehicle vibrated from the front passenger side of the vehicle. Also, consumer heard a knocking noise coming from the front of the vehicle. Consumer took the vehicle to the dealership, and mechanic determined that right upper ball joint failed.
The vehicle's lower ball joints failed at 38,000 miles. The cause has yet to be determined. The consumer found that both the driver and passenger side lower ball joints were "greased out. " the upper ball joint on the driver's side was out of suspension and greased out.