GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 43828 Ball Joint Separator
    • J 24319-B Steering Linkage and Tie Rod Puller
    • J 28733-B Hub and Bearing Puller
  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the wheel and tire. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Remove the rotor. Refer to Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  4. Remove the front wheel bearing assembly. Refer to Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement .

  5. Object Number: 144021  Size: SH
  6. Use J 24319-B in order to separate the tie rod (1) from the steering knuckle (2).
  7. Seperate the ball joint from the steering knuckle. Refer to

  8. Object Number: 104991  Size: SH
  9. Remove the strut to knuckle attaching nuts and bolts. Refer to Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement in Front Suspension or Strut Assembly Replacement in Front Suspension.
  10. Remove the steering knuckle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 104991  Size: SH

    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.

  1. Install the steering knuckle to the strut.
  2. Tighten
    Tighten the strut to knuckle bolts to 185 N·m (136 lb ft).

  3. Connect the lower ball joint. Refer to Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement in Front Suspension.
  4. Install the tie rod.
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the tie rod end to knuckle nut to 10 N·m (88 lb in) plus an additional 180 - 300 degrees (3 - 5 flats). For cotter pin alignment, tighten the nut up to, but do not exceed 60 degrees additional rotation. Do not back off nut for cotter pin alignment.

  6. Install the wheel hub bearing assembly. Refer to Front Wheel Bearing and Hub Replacement .
  7. Install the rotor. Refer to Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  8. Install the wheel and tire. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  9. Check wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment.