400 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15096-0001

SURFACE
VEHICLE
RECOMMENDED
PRACTICE

Submitted for recognition as an American National Standard

REAF.
JUN96

J193

Issued
Reaffirmed

1970-08
1996-06

Superseding J193 FEB87

BALL STUD AND SOCKET ASSEMBLYTEST PROCEDURES

ForewordThis Document has also changed to comply with the new SAE Technical Standards Board format.
1.

ScopeThe test procedures describe a method to laboratory test suspension and steering system ball stud
and/or socket assemblies for functional characteristics. This procedure is an extension of SAE J491b
recommended practice on dimensional recommendations for ball studs towards a vehicle application. The
tests are conducted either on ball studs individually or on complete integral assemblies representing the
application.

1.1

ObjectiveTo provide a uniform method of testing ball studs and ball stud and socket assemblies to ensure
that the parts will meet functional requirements of the application.

2.

References

2.1

Applicable PublicationsThe following publications form a part of this specification to the extent specified
herein. Unless otherwise specified, the latest issue of SAE publications shall apply.

2.1.1

SAE PUBLICATIONSAvailable from SAE, 400 Commonwealth Drive, Warrendale, PA 15096-0001.

SAE J491Steering Ball Studs and Socket Assemblies
SAE Paper #660102Simulation of Field Loading in Fatigue Testing

3.

Test ProceduresThe test procedures for suspension and steering components with few exceptions can be
similar because all ball stud and socket assemblies are subject to axial, lateral, and longitudinal forces,
differing only in the direction and magnitude of loading depending on the application.
The test procedures cover the following characteristics:
5.1 Ball Stud
5.1.1 Ball Stud Impact Strength
5.1.2 Ball Stud Yield
5.1.3 Ball Stud Tensile Load
5.2 Ball Stud and Socket

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SAE reviews each technical report at least every five years at which time it may be reaffirmed, revised, or cancelled. SAE invites your written comments and suggestions.
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Copyright 1996 Society of Automotive Engineers, Inc.
All rights reserved.

Printed in U.S.A.

SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

5.2.1 Ball Stud to Socket Rotating and Oscillating Torque
5.2.2 Ball Stud to Socket Axial End Movement
5.2.3 Ball Stud to Socket Cam-Out Strength
5.2.4 Ball Stud and Socket Assembly Fatigue and Heat Test
5.2.5 Ball Stud and Socket Pull-Out and Push-Out Strength
5.2.6 Ball Stud and Socket Angularity
4.

Loading and Cycle LifeThe loading used in the test procedures should be as representative as possible in
magnitude and direction with loads encountered in the design application. Recommended cycle life is provided
where applicable with each procedure.
To determine preliminary loading magnitude and direction, a layout design model of the complete suspension
and steering system, possibly computerized, should be utilized. A paper analysis can be made solving for the
component loading by assuming maximum "G" forces at the wheel/ground contact.
Using a vehicle with a similar suspension and/or steering system design, a program loading procedure can be
utilized to obtain a more realistic loading assessment. With this procedure, key load carrying components are
strain gaged to measure the load magnitudes, direction, frequency of load application and phasing (timing of
load application). The vehicle is driven over a circuit of road input events that simulate expected usage. From
this data, histograms of loading magnitude versus cumulative load application cycles can be obtained that will
establish the laboratory ultimate strength peak loads as well as a group of fatigue and wear test loads and
associated cycles for a specific vehicle life.
Representative program loading procedures are described in many SAE reports (SAE Report #660102).

5.

Objectives and Test Procedures

5.1

Ball StudTests conducted on individual ball studs.

5.1.1

BALL STUD IMPACT STRENGTH

5.1.1.1

ObjectiveTo determine the impact strength of the ball stud.

5.1.1.2

ProcedureThe test is applicable to either suspension or steering system studs. Mount the stud in a rigid
fixture as shown in Figure 1. Lock stud in fixture by torquing the retaining nut to design specifications.
Apply an impact load to exceed the expected impact load in the vehicle application.
Increase the impact load incrementally until a separation occurs to determine the load capability. Only one
impact per stud is permissible.
The stud must not fail by brittle fracture. Bending deflection must be 10 degrees minimum.

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

FIGURE 1IMPACT TEST

5.1.2

BALL STUD YIELD

5.1.2.1

ObjectiveTo determine at what load condition the ball stud will take a permanent set without fracture.

5.1.2.2

ProcedureThe test is applicable to either suspension or steering system studs.

The test fixture is shown in Figure 2. Grind a small flat on the head of the stud for accuracy of reading, to
receive the dial indicator or other measuring device.
Install the ball stud in the fixture with the mating taper hole in such a manner that a load can be applied to
the stud at right angles to the stud centerline and opposite the flat ground on the stud. Lock stud in fixture
by torquing the retaining nut to design specification.
Preload the stud. Set dial indicator or other measuring device to zero. Take deflection and set readings in
desired increments to permanent set range.
Stud yield load is equal to load required to permanently set stud without surface cracks or failure and may
be used to select stud application.

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

FIGURE 2TEST FIXTURE

BALL STUD TENSILE LOAD

5.1.3
5.1.3.1

ObjectiveTo determine the tensile load capability of the ball stud.

5.1.3.2

ProcedureThe test is applicable to either suspension or steering system studies depending on the
intended application, but generally would be appropriate for a suspension ball stud where the predominant
loading would be in a tensile direction.
Mount the stud in a load/deflection testing machine as shown in Figure 3.
CAUTIONUse care to prevent eccentric loading. A typical tensile load application rate is 5 mm/min.
Record load and mode of fracture for each sample tested.

5.2

Ball Stud and SocketTests conducted on complete ball stud and socket assemblies.

5.2.1

BALL STUD TO SOCKET ROTATING AND OSCILLATING TORQUE

5.2.1.1

ObjectiveTo ensure desired rotating and oscillating torque is obtained.

5.2.1.2

ProcedureThe test is applicable to either suspension or steering system components. The assembly
should be held in a manner to prevent addition of external clamping pressure which may affect torque
readings.

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

FIGURE 3TENSILE TEST

5.2.1.2.1

Breakaway TorqueAssemblies should be filled with specified application lubricant when it is required.
For some designs and applications, it is necessary to store the assembly (with lubricant) for 48 h without
movement prior to test to ascertain the cold flow characteristics of the materials and congelation effect of
the selected lubricant and breakaway torque.
The torque is read with a torque device with gradual application of a rotating or oscillating force.
Breakaway torque values may be varied to suit the application.

5.2.1.2.2

Rotating or Oscillating TorqueAssemblies should be filled with specified application lubricant when it is
required.
Rotate stud a minimum of five complete revolutions to minimize congelation and other factors prior to
recording torque.
The torque is read with a torque device while the stud is being revolved or oscillated at approximately 5
rpm.
Rotating and oscillating torque values may be varied to suit the application.

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

5.2.2

BALL STUD TO SOCKET AXIAL END MOVEMENT

5.2.2.1

ObjectiveTo determine end movement measurement.

5.2.2.2

ProcedureThe test is applicable to either suspension or steering system components.

5.2.2.2.1

Spring Loaded TypeFor axial movement, the following is commonly used. The stud should be set
perpendicular to the socket. Socket should be supported on the bottom of assembly. A force is applied
to the stud (less nut) and the axial movement of the stud is noted and recorded. (Figure 4A depicts
typical fixture.)
NOTE Ensure that the top of the stud is flat at the contact point of force (grind if necessary).

5.2.2.2.2

5.2.3

All Other Types of Socket AssembliesWith the shank of the socket assembly clamped to prevent
squeezing of socket and stud, pull upward. After the movement of the stud is noted and recorded, the
operation is repeated with a force pushing downward. (Figure 4B depicts a typical fixture for tie rod
ends.)

BALL STUD TO SOCKET CAM-OUT STRENGTH

5.2.3.1

ObjectiveTo determine retention of the ball stud in the socket at angular positions and to determine the
angle of separation.

5.2.3.2

ProcedureThe test is applicable to either suspension or steering system components. The ball stud and
socket assemblies should be mounted in a tensile test machine with the test specimen stud held in a fixture
which permits unrestricted angular travel. (Figure 5 depicts a typical fixture.)
A tensile load is applied to the assembly parallel to the normal load direction when the test stud is in full
angular travel. The test is repeated with a new sample, using a compression load. The maximum load and
angle induced prior to separating the stud from the socket is recorded.

5.2.4
5.2.4.1

BALL STUD AND SOCKET ASSEMBLY FATIGUE AND HEAT TEST

ObjectiveTo determine fatigue and wear characteristics of ball stud and socket assemblies.

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

FIGURE 4ABALL STUD TO SOCKET AXIAL END MOVEMENTTYPICAL FIXTURE

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

FIGURE 4BBALL STUD SOCKET AXIAL END MOVEMENTTYPICAL FIXTURE FOR TIE ROD ENDS

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

FIGURE 5BALL STUD TO SOCKET CAM-OUT STRENGTHTYPICAL FIXTURE

5.2.4.2

ProcedureThis test is applicable to either suspension or steering system components. Use socket
assemblies which have been tested according to 5.2.1, 5.2.2, and 5.2.6 and found acceptable. Socket
assemblies should be filled with recommended lubricant when required in the application. Socket
assemblies should be installed, with seals when required, in a fixture by placing the taper shank in the
mating tapered hole with the retaining nut torqued to design specification. For each type to be tested, the
ball stud and socket assemblies may be modified to suit the test machine providing the modifications do
not affect test results. Securely clamp the link in a manner to achieve the required motions. The following
are typical motions which may be used. (Refer to Figures 6A and 6B.)
a. Angular Oscillation20 degrees in a plan parallel to the link or 90 degrees to axis of suspension
control arm pivot centerline. A typical rate is 60 cpm.
b. Angular Rotation40 degrees measured about the ball stud shank centerline. A typical rate is 32
cpm.

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

c.

LoadAlternating designated horizontal tension and compression load for steering applications.
Suspension ball stud and socket tests will also require vertical tension or compression loads. A typical
rate is 60 cpm.

Load application angle may be varied to suit the application. The socket assemblies are then tested to
required angles, frequencies, and load applications concurrently and completed in two phases. When
actual use dictates, other application loads, angles, and frequencies may be substituted.

FIGURE 6ATYPICAL STEERING LINKAGE BALL STUD AND SOCKET ASSEMBLY

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

FIGURE 6BTYPICAL SUSPENSION BALL STUD AND SOCKET ASSEMBLY

5.2.4.2.1

Phase I TestPeak LoadTo correlate the cycle life with the maximum operating load to which the
assembly will be subjected in its actual application.
The cycle life varies for each type of application and environment; therefore, a program loading
procedure for the specific application is required to establish load and cycle life required for this test.
In the absence of complete program loading data, and to provide a basis for standardized testing of the
assembly, 7500 cycles is a reasonable cycle life for this test.

5.2.4.2.2

Phase II TestEndurance LoadTo correlate the cycle life of the assembly for the average load to
which the assembly will be subjected in its application and environment, with life in actual use, and to
establish the load which provides for extended fatigue and heat life.
The load and cycle life varies for each type of application and environment; therefore, a program loading
procedure for the specific application is recommended to establish load and cycle life required for this
test.
In the absence of complete program loading data and to provide a basis for standardized testing of the
assembly, 250 000 cycles is reasonable life for this test.
During the Phase I and Phase II tests, artificial cooling may be used where deemed necessary to prevent
heat build-up which would not be experienced in the application.

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

If the application of the ball stud and socket assembly includes environmental contamination,
contaminants should be provided to correlate with these conditions in the test. This procedure will
determine seal durability and effectiveness.
Typical test environments commonly used are:
a. Ozone atmosphere
b. Saline and dust, 4.0 L of water, 50% saturated solution of common salt at 21 C to 24 C, and 0.15 kg
of SAE air cleaner test dust fine grade.
c. Steam
Conditions to be examined at completion of test to determine adequacy for the application:
The rotating and oscillating torque condition (See 5.2.1) .
The end movement (See 5.2.2).
The ball stud should be examined for any surface cracks, determined by a dye check or approved
equivalent.
The ball stud should be examined for any local yielding, determined by a dimension check.
The internal components should be examined for damage.
5.2.5

BALL STUD AND SOCKET PULL-OUT AND PUSH-OUT STRENGTH

5.2.5.1

ObjectiveTo determine the tension or compression loads which will separate the ball stud from the
socket.

5.2.5.2

ProcedureThis test is applicable to either suspension or steering system components. Assemble the
ball stud and socket assembly in a load/deflection testing machine so that the load applied to the stud is
perpendicular to the ball joint mounting surface.
Measure and record the stud tensile load required to separate the stud from the socket assembly. A typical
load application rate is 5 mm/min. Repeat the test with another sample using a compressive load.
The acceptance criteria for stud pull- or push-out should be established from the calculated or measured
loads based on the application.

5.2.6

BALL STUD AND SOCKET ANGULARITY

5.2.6.1

ObjectiveTo determine if the socket throat is capable of providing the required stud angularity.

5.2.6.2

ProcedureThis test is applicable to either suspension or steering system components. Assemble the
ball stud and socket assembly into a rigid fixture simulating the assembly into a suspension arm or steering
linkage.
Measure and record stud travel angularity both along the socket throat major axis and across the minor
axis.
The acceptance criteria is based on the angularity requirements in the specific application adjusted to take
into account the effect of dimensional variations and suspension/linkage compliance.
PREPARED BY THE SAE MATERIALS, PARTS, AND PROCESSES DIVISION

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SAE J193 Reaffirmed JUN96

RationaleNot applicable.
Relationship of SAE Standard to ISO StandardNot applicable.
ApplicationThe test procedures describe a method to laboratory test suspension and steering system ball
stud and/or socket assemblies for functional characteristics. This procedure is an extension of SAE
J491b recommended practice on dimensional recommendations for ball studs towards a vehicle
application. The tests are conducted either on ball studs individually or on complete integral assemblies
representing the application.
Reference Section
SAE J491Steering Ball Studs and Socket Assemblies
SAE Paper #660102Simulation of Field Loading in Fatigue Testing
Developed by the SAE Materials, Parts, and Processes Division