Relay Rod Replacement 2WD

Tools Required

J 26813-B Steering Linkage Puller

A non-adjustable relay rod connects the pitman arm to the steering arm. If the relay rod becomes worn or damaged, replace the complete assembly.

Important: In some applications a lock style nut may be used. If a lock style nut is used it should be discarded and replaced with a new lock style nut.

1. Remove the cotter pin (2).
2. Discard the cotter pin.
3. Remove the relay rod nut (3).




Important: Before removing relay rod mark its position so it can be referenced on installation.

4. Use the J 26813-B in order to remove the relay rod from the pitman arm.




Important: In some applications a lock style nut may be used. If a lock style nut is used it should be discarded and replaced with a new lock style nut.

5. Remove the cotter pin (1) and discard.
6. Remove the nut (2) from the steering arm.
7. Use theJ 26813-B in order to remove the relay rod (3) from the steering arm.
8. Remove the relay rod (3).



9. Inspect the relay rod (11) for damage.
10. Inspect the end assembly stud threads for damage.
11. Inspect the assembly rubber seals for the following conditions:

•

Damage

•	Deterioration

12. Install the relay rod nuts (8,10).
13. Use a torque wrench in order to measure the torque used to turn the ball stud.
14. Replace the relay rod if the turning torque is less than 0.5 N·m (5 lb in).

Important: Note position of relay rod from removal process so the relay rod is not installed backwards.

1. Install the relay rod (4) ball joint-pitman arm end to the pitman arm (1).

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

2. Install the relay rod to pitman arm nut.

Tighten

•	FN9/FM7 - Tighten the relay rod nut to 210 N·m (155 lb ft).

•	FM8 - Tighten the relay rod nut to 129 N·m (96 lb ft).

•	FM6/FS7/FL3/FH4 - Tighten the relay rod nut to 162 N·m (120 lb ft).




3. Install the relay rod (3) ball joint steering arm end to the steering arm.
4. Install the steering arm/relay rod nut.

Tighten

•	FN9/FM7/FM8 - Tighten the steering arm/relay rod nut to 210 N·m (155 lb ft).

•	FM6/FS7/FL3/FH4 - Tighten the steering arm/relay rod nut to 325 N·m (239 lb ft).





Important: Do not back off a relay rod nut in order to insert a cotter pin.

5. Advance both relay rod nuts (8, 10) to the nearest cotter pin slot.
6. Install the new cotter pins (7,12) if a lock style nut was not used.
7. Lubricate the relay rod with chassis lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations and Maintenance Schedule in Maintenance and Lubrication.