Front Steering Knuckle: Service and Repair

Steering Knuckle Replacement

Tools Required
* J 43631 Ball Joint Remover
* J 6627-A Ball Joint Separator

Removal Procedure

1. Raise and support the vehicle. refer to vehicle lifting.
2. Remove the tire and wheel.
3. Support the lower control arm.
4. Remove the wheel drive shaft nut. Discard the nut.
5. Disconnect the wheel speed sensor harness from the chassis harness.
6. Disconnect the wheel speed sensor harness from inner fender panel.
7. Disconnect the outer tie rod from the steering knuckle.




8. Remove and discard the upper control arm pinch bolt and nut from the ball joint.
9. Remove and discard the lower control arm retaining nut.
10. Separate the lower ball joint from the steering knuckle using the J 43631.




11. Remove the steering knuckle assembly from the vehicle and set on a bench.
12. Remove the ball joint using the J 6627-A.
13. Remove the wheel hub and bearing assembly.

Installation Procedure

1. Install the wheel hub and bearing assembly.
2. Clean all grease and contaminants from the tapered section and the threads of the lower ball joint, and the tie rod end.
3. Clean and inspect the taper holes and the mounting surfaces of the steering knuckle. If any of the tapered holes are elongated, out of round, or damaged, replace the steering knuckle.





Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice.

4. Connect the lower ball joint to the steering knuckle and install the new retaining nut.

Tighten the nut to 85 N.m (63 lb ft) plus 60 degrees.

5. Connect the upper ball joint to the steering knuckle and install the new pinch bolt and nut.

Tighten the nut to 70 N.m (52 lb ft).

6. Connect the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle.
7. Connect the wheel speed sensor harness to the chassis harness.
8. Connect the wheel speed sensor harness to inner fender panel.
9. Install the new wheel drive shaft nut.
10. Install the tire and wheel.
11. Remove the control arm support.
12. Lower the vehicle.
13. Verify the wheel alignment.