Tools Required

1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
2. Remove the steering linkage shield. Refer to Steering Linkage Shield Replacement .
3. Remove the differential carrier shield mounting bolts.
4. Remove the differential carrier shield.




Important: Use the proper tool in order to separate all ball joints.

5. Remove the cotter pin from the steering shock absorber ball stud nut.
6. Remove the steering shock absorber ball stud nut.



7. Remove the steering shock absorber from the relay rod using J 24319-B .



8. Remove the steering shock absorber mounting bolt at the front crossmember bracket nut.
9. Remove the steering shock absorber mounting bolt from the front crossmember bracket.
10. Remove the steering shock absorber.
11. Inspect the ball stud threads for damage.
12. Inspect the ball stud seals for excessive wear.
13. Clean the threads in the ball stud and the ball stud nut.

1. Install the steering shock absorber mounting bolt to the front crossmember bracket.

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.

2. Install the steering shock absorber mounting bolt to the front crossmember bracket nut.

Tighten
Tighten the steering shock absorber mounting bolt to the front crossmember bracket nut to 60 N·m (44 lb ft).




3. Install the new cotter pin to the steering shock absorber mounting bolt to the frame bracket nut.

Bend out the ends of the cotter pin.

4. Install the steering shock absorber ball stud to the relay rod.

Ensure that the seal is on the stud.

5. Seat the taper using J 29193 or J 29194 .

Tighten
Tighten J 29193 or J 29194 to 54 N·m (40 lb ft).

6. Remove J 29193 or J 29194 from the steering shock absorber ball stud.
7. Install the steering shock absorber ball stud nut.

Tighten
Tighten the steering shock absorber ball stud nut to 63 N·m (46 lb ft).

8. Install the new cotter pin to the steering shock absorber ball stud nut.

Bend out the ends of the cotter pin.




9. Install the differential carrier shield.
10. Install the differential carrier shield mounting bolts.

Tighten
Tighten the differential carrier shield mounting bolts to 25 N·m (19 lb ft).

11. Install the steering linkage shield. Refer to Steering Linkage Shield Replacement .
12. Lower the vehicle.