Rear Knuckle: Service and Repair
Wheel Knuckle - AWDSpecial Tool(s):
Removal and Installation
CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with the same part number, or an equivalent part, must be installed if installation is necessary. Do not use a new part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.
1. Measure the distance from the center of the hub to the lip of the fender with the vehicle in a level, static ground position (curb height).
2. Remove the wheel bearing and wheel hub assembly.
3. Remove the brake dust shield bolts and remove the brake dust shield.
^ To install, tighten to 14 Nm (10 ft. lbs.).
4. Using a suitable jack stand, support the front of the vehicle.
5. Position a V-topped transmission jack under the lower control arm at the shock and spring assembly attachment point, then raise it enough to compress the shock absorber and spring assembly.
6. Remove and discard the trailing arm-to-knuckle bolt.
^ To install, tighten to 105 Nm (77 ft. lbs.).
7. Remove and discard the toe link-to-knuckle nut and bolt.
^ To install, tighten to 100 Nm (74 ft. lbs.).
8. Loosen, but do not remove, the shock absorber and spring assembly lower bolt, then carefully lower the jack stand until the spring is near its full extension.
9. Lower the V-topped transmission jack and remove and discard the lower arm-to-knuckle bolt.
^ To install, tighten to 90 Nm (66 ft. lbs.).
10. Remove and discard the wheel knuckle ball joint nut.
^ To install, tighten to 105 Nm (77 ft. lbs.).
11. Using the special tool, disconnect and remove the wheel knuckle.
12. NOTE: Always install new suspension fasteners.
NOTE: Before tightening the upper arm and lower arm bolts, use a jack stand to raise the rear suspension until the distance between the center of the hub and the lip of the fender is equal to the measurement taken in the removal procedure (curb height).
To install, reverse the removal procedure.