GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 6627-A Wheel and Stud Remover

Important: Use the J 6627-A in order to separate all of the following components. Damage to the tie rod and the tie rod components may result:

   • The tie rods
   • The ball joints

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the nut from the outer tie rod ball stud. Do not reuse the nut.
  3. Use the J 6627-A in order to remove the outer tie rod ball stud from the steering knuckle.

  4. Object Number: 293535  Size: SH
  5. Remove the nut from the inner tie rod ball stud. Do not reuse the nut.
  6. Use the J 6627-A in order to remove the inner tie rod ball stud from the relay rod.
  7. Remove the tie rod ends from the adjuster tube. Use the following procedure:
  8. 6.1. Loosen the clamp nuts.
    6.2. Spread the clamps.
    6.3. Unscrew the tie rods.
  9. Inspect the threads on the ball stud.
  10. Clean the threads on the ball stud.
  11. Inspect the following components for damage and excessive wear:
  12. • The tie rod ends
    • The tie rod seals
    • The ball stud seals
    • The adjuster tubes

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)

    Important: If the tie rod end was removed, lubricate the tie rod threads using chassis lubricant.

  1. Install the tie rod end to the adjuster tube. Ensure that the number of threads on the following components are within three threads or exactly equal:
  2. • The inner tie rod ends
    • The outer tie rod ends

    Object Number: 293535  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.

  3. Install the inner tie rod ball stud to the relay rod. Ensure that the seal is on the stud.
  4. Tighten
    Use the J 29193 in order to tighten the ball stud to 54 N·m (40 lb ft).

  5. Install the new nut to the inner tie rod ball stud.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 62 N·m (46 lb ft).

  7. Install the outer tie rod ball studs to the steering knuckle.
  8. Tighten
    Using J 29193, tighten the ball studs to 54 N·m (40 lb ft).

  9. Install the new nut to the outer rod ball studs.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 62 N·m (46 lb ft).

  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Adjust the front toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement .