GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • KM-507-C Ball Joint Separator
    • KM-460-B Axle Shaft Remover

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 1265635  Size: SH
  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  2. Remove the wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  3. Remove the axle shaft-caulking nut. Discard the nut.

  4. Object Number: 1265638  Size: SH
  5. Remove the lower ball joint nut and bolt.

  6. Object Number: 1265639  Size: SH

    Important: Use only the recommended tool for separating the lower ball joint. Failure to use the recommended tool may cause damage to the ball joint and the seal.

  7. Separate the steering knuckle from the lower ball joint using the KM-507-C  (1).

  8. Object Number: 1265640  Size: SH
  9. Remove the tie rod nut.

  10. Object Number: 1265642  Size: SH

    Important: Use only the recommended tool for separating the lower ball joint. Failure to use the recommended tool may cause damage to the ball joint and the seal.

  11. Separate the tie rod end using the KM-507-C  (1).
  12. Notice: Refer to Drive Axle Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1265643  Size: SH
  13. Push the drive axle shaft from the wheel hub.
  14. Important: Place a drain pan below the transaxle to catch the escaping fluid. Cap the transaxle drive opening after the drive axle has been removed to keep the fluid in and any contamination out.

  15. Remove the drive axle from the transaxle using the KM-460-B  (1).

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1265643  Size: SH
  1. Using the KM-460-B  (1), install the drive axle into the transaxle.
  2. Push the drive axle shaft onto the wheel hub.

  3. Object Number: 1265642  Size: SH
  4. Install the lower ball joint to the tie rod.
  5. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1265640  Size: SH
  6. Instal the tie rod nut.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 60 N·m (44 lb ft).


    Object Number: 1265639  Size: SH
  8. Install the lower ball joint to the steering knuckle.

  9. Object Number: 1265638  Size: SH
  10. Install the lower ball joint nut and bolt.
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the nut and bolt to 90 N·m (66 lb ft).


    Object Number: 1265635  Size: SH
  12. Install a new axle shaft-caulking nut.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 180 N·m (133 lb ft).

  14. Loosen the nut and re-tighten.
  15. Tighten
    Tighten the nut to 50 N·m (37 lb ft).

    Important: Final torque has to be 220-340 N·m (162-251 lb ft).

  16. Tighten the nut another 60 degrees.
  17. Refill the transaxle fluid to the proper level.
  18. Install the wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .