Front Steering Knuckle: Service and Repair
Steering Knuckle Replacement (RWD)Removal Procedure
Tools Required
- J 23742 Ball Joint Separator
- J 24319-B Universal Steering Linkage Puller
- J 6627-A Tie Rod Puller
Caution: Floor jack must remain under the lower control arm during removal and installation to retain the lower control arm in position. Failure to do so could result in personal injury.
1. Raise the vehicle.
- Support the lower control arm with floor stands.
- Place floor stands under the lower control arms as far outboard as possible (between spring seats and ball joint) to maintain maximum leverage.
2. Remove the rotor. Refer to Wheel Hub, Bearing, and Seal Replacement (RWD).
3. Remove the bolts that attach the splash shield to the steering knuckle.
4. Remove the cotter pin.
5. Remove the tie rod end stud nut.
6. Disconnect the tie rod end from the steering knuckle using J 6627-A.
7. Remove the lower ball joint stud from the steering knuckle using J 23742.
8. Remove the upper ball joint stud from the steering knuckle using J 23742.
1. Position a floor jack under the lower control arm near the spring seat. Raise the jack until the jack supports the control arm.
2. Raise the upper control arm. Disengage the ball joint stud from the steering knuckle.
9. Remove the steering knuckle from the lower ball joint stud.
1. Clean the steering knuckle.
2. Inspect the steering knuckle tapered hole. Replace the steering knuckle if this tapered hole is out-of-round, deformed, or damaged.
Installation Procedure
Tools Required
- J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer
1. Install the upper ball joint to the steering knuckle. Refer to Upper Ball Joint Replacement (RWD). Ball Joint
2. Install the lower ball joint to the steering knuckle. Refer to Lower Ball Joint Replacement (RWD). Ball Joint
3. Install the splash shield to the steering knuckle.
4. Install the splash shield bolts.
Tighten
Tighten the splash shield bolts to 26 N.m (19 lb ft).
5. Install the tie rod end to the steering knuckle. Ensure that the 4 seal is on the stud.
6. Seat the taper using J 29193.
7. Tighten J 29193 to 54 N.m (40 lb ft).
8. Remove J 29193 from the tie rod end ball stud.
9. Install the tie rod end retaining nut.
Tighten
Tighten the tie rod end retaining nut to 53 N.m (39 lb ft).
10. Install the rotor. Refer to Wheel Hub, Bearing, and Seal Replacement (RWD).
11. Lower the vehicle.
12. Check the front wheel alignment.