Help keep the front suspension pivoting smoothly with the Dorman ball joint, part number 533-237, a front upper joint that serves as the pivot between the upper control arm and the steering knuckle. It fits many vehicles, among them the 1967-1979 Ford Thunderbird, 1971-1980 Ford Pinto and 1977-1979 Ford LTD II. See the "Vehicles it fits" section for the full list of applications and engine details.
This Dorman suspension ball joint is precision-engineered and thoroughly tested by the manufacturer to stand in for the original equipment on the listed applications.
- Direct replacement: designed to fit and perform like the original equipment on the listed vehicles.
- Reliable fit: precision-engineered to match the design and dimensions of the original components.
- Durable construction: built to strict standards from sturdy steel and rubber materials.
- Rigorously tested: thorough quality-control measures are intended to support longevity.
A worn ball joint may show up as clunking or knocking over bumps, loose or wandering steering, play when the wheel is rocked, or uneven tire wear. If a worn front upper ball joint is the cause, this part replaces it. Replacing both sides together is recommended for balanced handling, and a wheel alignment check after installation is advised.
Interchange: 610.65026 · K-8212
45D0018 · 46D0018A · TC5399 · FA912 · C9AZ3082A · C9AZ3082B · C9AZ3082C · C9AZ3082D · D1FZ3049A · D2AZ3082A · D3AZ3078A · K8212 · FA912GL · GK8212 · MK8212 · JBJ868 · 61065026
This part cross-references / interchanges with the following part numbers:
45D0018, 46D0018A, 610.65026, TC5399, FA912, C9AZ3082A, C9AZ3082B, C9AZ3082C, C9AZ3082D, D1FZ3049A, D2AZ3082A, D3AZ3078A, K8212, FA912GL, GK8212, MK8212, K-8212, JBJ868
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a front upper ball joint do?
It acts as a pivot linking the upper control arm to the steering knuckle. This lets the wheel move up and down with the suspension and turn with the steering.
Can I use this as a 1967-1979 Ford Thunderbird ball joint?
Yes. It is listed as a front upper ball joint for the 1967-1979 Ford Thunderbird. Check the "Vehicles it fits" section to confirm your exact vehicle.
What is the Dorman 533-237 made of?
Dorman states this ball joint is made of steel and rubber materials. It is built to strict standards and goes through thorough quality-control testing.
What are signs a ball joint may need replacing?
Common signs include clunking over bumps, loose or wandering steering, play when the wheel is rocked, and uneven tire wear. Diagnose the cause first, since other parts can cause similar symptoms.
Is anything needed after installing it?
Follow the vehicle service information for the installation procedure and the correct fasteners, then have the wheel alignment checked.
