GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 24319-B Universal Steering Linkage Puller

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle with suitable safety stands.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.

  3. Object Number: 156332  Size: SH
  4. Remove the bolt (2) retaining the key support to the caliper (1).

  5. Object Number: 156334  Size: SH
  6. Remove the support key and the spring using a brass punch and a hammer to drive out the support key.
  7. Remove the caliper assembly.

  8. Object Number: 643351  Size: SH
  9. Remove the cotter pin and nut retaining the tie rod to the steering arm.
  10. Using the J 24319-B remove the tie rod from the steering arm.
  11. Remove the brake rotor. Refer to Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  12. Remove the bolts retaining the brake caliper mounting bracket.
  13. Remove the brake caliper dust shield.

  14. Object Number: 687508  Size: MH
  15. Remove the upper steering knuckle cap (5) and gasket (6).
  16. Remove the lower steering knuckle cap (14) and gasket (13).
  17. Remove the king pin (7) lock pin (21).
  18. • Using a drift, drive out the king pins.
    • The spacers and the bushings (8, 12) will also come out.
  19. Remove the steering knuckle (10) from the axle.
  20. Remove the dust seal, shim and the thrust bearing.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 687508  Size: MH
  1. New knuckles have bushings already installed and reaming is not needed. If reusing the original knuckles, install the bushings (8,12). ream the bushings to between 29.982 - 30.022 mm (1.1804 - 1.1820 in).
  2. An adjustable reamer is available from industrial and automotive tool suppliers.

  3. Install the steering knuckle (10).
  4. Install the thrust bearing shim and dust seal.
  5. Lubricate the thrust bearing. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.

  6. Install the king pin and the lock pin (21).
  7. • Lubricate the king pin. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
    • Insert the spacers in the correct order.

    Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  8. Install the lock pin retaining nut and washer.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the lock pin retaining nut to 40 N·m (29 lb ft).

  10. Install the gaskets (6, 13).
  11. Install the upper and lower steering knuckle caps (5, 14).
  12. Check and if needed, adjust the king pin preload. Refer to King Pin Bearing Preload .
  13. Install the brake caliper dust shield.
  14. Install the brake rotor. Refer to Brake Rotor Replacement in Disc Brakes.
  15. Install the brake caliper mounting bracket and bolts.
  16. Tighten
    Tighten the brake caliper mounting bolts to 105 N·m (78 lb ft).

  17. Install the brake caliper.

  18. Object Number: 156336  Size: SH
  19. Install the key support to the caliper.

  20. Object Number: 156332  Size: SH
  21. Install the bolt (1) retaining the key support to the caliper.
  22. Tighten
    Tighten the caliper retaining bolt to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).

  23. Lubricate the king pins.
  24. Install the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  25. Remove the safety stands.
  26. Lower the vehicle.