Front Steering Knuckle: Service and Repair

Wheel Knuckle





Removal and Installation

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure may result in major service expense. new part with the same part number must be used 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. Remove and discard the wheel hub nut.
^ To install, tighten to 350 Nm (258 lb-ft).
2. Remove the wheel and tire.
3. Remove the brake disc.
4. Remove the tie-rod end nut, then separate the tie rod from the wheel knuckle.
^ To install, tighten to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).
5. Remove the bolt and the wheel speed sensor from the wheel knuckle. Position the wheel speed sensor aside.
^ To install, tighten to 14 Nm (10 lb-ft).





6. NOTE: Use the hex-holding feature to prevent the stud from turning while removing the nut.

Using a crow's foot wrench, remove and discard the lower ball joint nut.
^ To install, tighten to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).
7. Using a pry bar, push the lower arm downward until the ball joint is clear of the lower arm.





8. After separating the lower arm ball joint from the wheel knuckle, immediately install the special tool over the ball stud before releasing the lower arm and knuckle into the rest position.
^ Leave the special tool in place during service, only remove prior to reassembly.





9. CAUTION: Do not allow the halfshaft to move outboard. Overextension of the tripod constant velocity (CV) joint may result in separation of internal parts, causing failure of the halfshaft.

Using the special tool, press the halfshaft from the wheel bearing and hub. Support the halfshaft in a level position.





10. Remove and discard the strut-to-wheel knuckle nut and flagbolt.
^ To install, tighten to 175 Nm (129 lb-ft).
11. Remove the wheel knuckle.
^ If necessary, remove the wheel hub and bearing.
12. To install, reverse the removal procedure.