GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 24319-B Steering Linkage Puller
    • J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)
    • J 29194 Steering Linkage Installer (14 mm)

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 404222  Size: SH
  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle with safety stands. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Important: Use the proper tool in order to separate all ball joints.

  3. Remove the inner tie rods ball stud nuts.
  4. Remove the inner tie rods ball studs from the relay rod. Refer to Tie Rod Replacement .
  5. Remove the relay rod ball stud nut at the pitman arm.
  6. Disconnect the relay rod ball stud from the pitman arm using the J 24319-B .
  7. Remove the relay rod ball stud nut at the idler arm.
  8. Disconnect the relay rod ball stud from the idler arm using the J 24319-B .

  9. Object Number: 370508  Size: SH
  10. Remove the relay rod.
  11. Inspect the following components:
  12. • The threads on the tie rod for damage
    • The threads on the tie rod end for damage
    • The ball stud threads for damage
    • The ball stud seals for excessive wear
  13. Clean the threads on the ball stud and nut.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 370508  Size: SH
  1. Install the relay rod ball stud to the idler arm.
  2. Ensure that the seal is on the stud.

    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.

  3. Seat the taper.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the J 29193 or J 29194 to 54 N·m (40 lb ft).

  5. Install the nut to the relay rod ball stud at the idler arm.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the relay rod ball stud at the idler arm nut to 82 N·m (60 lb ft).

  7. Install the relay rod ball stud to the pitman arm.
  8. Ensure that the seal is on the stud.

  9. Seat the taper using J 29193 or J 29194 .
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the J 29193 or J 29194 to 54 N·m (40 lb ft).


    Object Number: 404222  Size: SH
  11. Install the nut to the relay rod ball stud at the pitman arm.
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the relay rod ball stud at the pitman arm nut to 83 N·m (61 lb ft).

  13. Install the inner tie rod ball stud to the relay rod.
  14. Ensure the seal is on the stud.

  15. Seat the taper using J 29193 or J 29194 .
  16. Tighten
    Tighten the J 29193 or J 29194 to 54 N·m (40 lb ft).

  17. Install the inner tie rod ball stud nut at the relay rod.
  18. Tighten
    Tighten the inner tie rod ball stud to relay rod nut to 82 N·m (60 lb ft).

  19. Adjust the toe-in. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment in Wheel Alignment.