If the endlink stud(ball) turns in the socket is it ruined?

[bradman]

I know there have been a million end link threads, but a search revealed none that addressed my specific question.

I removed a set of the HD plastic end links using two wrenches just as you're supposed to. However, I couldn't prevent the 8mm studs from rotating a little (20-30 degrees) during the removal process. After I got the links off, I realized that the studs rotate quite easily. I assume it is a ball in socket design at the end of each of the studs. It makes sense to me that they should be free to rotate, however, I think I've read in other threads that if you allow the stud to rotate, the end link is ruined.

So my question is are my end links OK if the studs rotate? The ball in socket joints (if that's what they are) seem tight and they are in good condition otherwise,... just wondering if that small amount of rotation during removal ruined them?

Thanks in advance for your replies.

 

[olympic]

They're suppose to turn like that. They do so during normal operation anyways.

 

[Porkchop]

how easily do they move?

 

[bradman]

I don' t think I could turn them with my fingers, but I can with a few pounds of torque on the 8mm end wrench that is maybe 4 inches long. They will rotate 360. I'm thinking they are OK as olympic suggests.