'01 F-150, 4.6l 4x2 ~80k miles

Is there a way to test the ball joints, ocassionally get a poping sound seems to come from drives side when turning, also occurs more often when turning in reverse.

Thanks in advance

 

Jack up one front wheel at a time. Get the tire about 4 inches off the ground, put a jack stand under the front for safety. Using a 3 foot pry bar (I use the handle off the floor jack), put the end of the pry bar under the tire. The motion you want to do is pry the tire/wheel up and release (don't try to lift the car with all your might, your just want to put some pressure to see if there's movement, and you'll know it if there is). Have someone look for movement (this will pinpoint ball joints). Next grab the tire at 9 and 3 o'clock position with your hands and jiggle back and forth with someone looking for movement underneath (tie rods, steering, etc.) Be careful!

 

Raise the truck up off it's tires, grab the tires top and bottom, 6 o'clock and 12 let's say and push/ pull to feel any plan. I'll bet it's your tie rod. Grab it and first try and turn it to break it free, then push back away from the nut, back and forth. If any play is felt, replace now!!!!!! It should feel solid and rotate smooth, if you can feel something looser that seems to be inside, it's crap. Replace with Moog one(s) because they are greaseable. Ball joints same brand if they're gone.

 

Thanks guys, I'll try tonight when I get home

Is 80k about right for the typical life span for ball joints?