Front Steering Knuckle: Service and Repair

REMOVAL

1. Remove drive shaft. (4WD)





2. Separate tie rod end and lower ball joint from knuckle with ball joint remover tool No. ST29020001, or equivalent.

NOTE: Install stud nut conversely on stud bolt so as not to damage stud bolt.





3. Separate knuckle from strut.

INSPECTION

Knuckle Spindle
- Check knuckle spindle for deformation, cracks or other damage by using a magnetic exploration or dyeing test.

Needle Bearings (4WD)
- Check needle bearing for wear, scratches, pitting, flaking and burn marks.


INSTALLATION





1. Install needle bearing into knuckle spindle. (4WD)

NOTE: Make sure that needle bearing is facing in proper direction. Apply multi-purpose grease.

2. Install knuckle with wheel hub.

3. Install tie rod end and lower ball joint.

4. After installing knuckle spindle, adjust wheel bearing preload.
Refer to Wheel Bearing.





5. After installing drive shaft, check drive shaft axial end play. (4WD)
Refer to Axle Shaft Assembly, Constant Velocity Type.

NOTE: Do not reuse snap ring once it has been removed.