Preliminary Procedure

Remove the front tire/wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.

1

Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Nut

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

Procedure

1. Prior to re-installing the steering linkage outer tie rod nut use installer J 44015 to seat the steering linkage outer tie rod in the steering knuckle.
2. Tighten installer J 44015 to 40 N·m (30 lb ft) and then remove.

Torque
25 N·m (18 lb ft) + 90 degrees.

2

Steering Linkage Inner Tie Rod Nut

Procedure

Mark the location of the steering linkage inner tie rod nut and loosen it.

Tighten
60 N·m (44 lb ft).

3

Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod

Procedure

1. Use the separator SA91100C to separate the steering linkage outer tie rod from the steering knuckle.
2. Inspect the steering linkage inner tie rod for bent or damaged threads.
3. Clean the tapered surface of the steering knuckle.
4. Lubricate the tie rod threads with chassis lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations.
5. Adjust the front toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment - Steering Wheel Angle and/or Front Toe Adjustment.

Tip
Do not free the steering linkage outer tie rod from the steering knuckle by use of a pickle fork or a wedge type tool. Damage to the steering linkage outer tie rod seal may result.

Special Tools

Preliminary Procedure

Remove the front tire/wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.

1

Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Nut

Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

Procedure

1. Prior to re-installing the steering linkage outer tie rod nut use installer J 44015 to seat the steering linkage outer tie rod in the steering knuckle.
2. Tighten installer J 44015 to 40 N·m (30 lb ft) and then remove.

Torque
25 N·m (18 lb ft) + 90 degrees.

2

Steering Linkage Inner Tie Rod Nut

Procedure

Mark the location of the steering linkage inner tie rod nut and loosen it.

Tighten
60 N·m (44 lb ft).

3

Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod

Procedure

1. Use the separator SA91100C to separate the steering linkage outer tie rod from the steering knuckle.
2. Inspect the steering linkage inner tie rod for bent or damaged threads.
3. Clean the tapered surface of the steering knuckle.
4. Lubricate the tie rod threads with chassis lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations.
5. Adjust the front toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment - Steering Wheel Angle and/or Front Toe Adjustment.

Tip
Do not free the steering linkage outer tie rod from the steering knuckle by use of a pickle fork or a wedge type tool. Damage to the steering linkage outer tie rod seal may result.

Special Tools