I've read the FAQ on ball joints and tie rod ends, but the procedures for testing if these parts need replacement leaves me with some questions. I'd like to make sure these parts need replacing in addition to the struts.

For the ball joints, the FAQ directions say, "Using a large pair of pliers, squeeze down on the joint. The maximum axial play permitted is 0.12 (3.0 mm) and the maximum radial play is 0.02 (0.5 mm)."

What is not clear to me is where do I grip the joint? At the end of the shaft that protrudes from the support arm and that has a cotter pin? THe area of the joint with the rubber boot seems too small to grab with pliers, and I'd worry about damaging the boot. If I grab the wheel while the car is jacked up it doesn't appear to have play.

The same goes for the procedure for checking the tie rod wear. The directions say to hold through the boot that covers the inner tie rod joint. But this boot is a hard plastic and it doesn't seem possible to hold anything through it, at least enough to detect any wear. Also, there is nothing on the FAQ about checking for the condition of the outer tie rod joint. Could anybody suggest a method for doing this?

Thanks.