Tools Required

1. Raise the vehicle and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
2. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Wheel Removal .



3. Remove the hub and bearing assembly. Refer to Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement .
4. Disconnect the tie rod end at the steering knuckle. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement in Power Steering System.
5. Remove the strut to knuckle nuts and bolts.
6. Remove the knuckle.

1. Install the knuckle.
2. Install the strut-to-knuckle bolts.
3. Connect the lower ball joint to the knuckle.
4. Connect the Road Sensing Suspension position sensor to the lower control arm.
5. Connect the tie rod at the knuckle. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement in Power Steering System.

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

6. Install the hub and bearing assembly. Refer to Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement .

Tighten

•	Tighten the hub and bearing retaining bolts to 145 N·m (110 lb ft).

•	Tighten the strut-to-knuckle nuts to 184 N·m (136 lb ft).

•

Tighten the ball joint nut to 10 N·m (84 lb in) using the J 35551 90 degrees to torque wrench. Tighten the nut an additional 120 degrees. When tightening the nut a minimum torque of 50 N·m (37 lb ft) must be obtained. If 50 N·m (37 lb ft) is not obtained, inspect the nut for stripped threads. If the threads are satisfactory, replace the ball joint and knuckle. If required, turn the nut up to an additional 60 degrees in order to allow for the installation of the cotter pin.

•	Tighten the tie rod to the specification listed in Power Steering Gear and Pump.

7. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Wheel Installation in Tires and Wheels.

Tighten
Tighten the wheel nuts to 140 N·m (100 lb ft).

8. Lower the vehicle.