GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Relay Rod Replacement Saginaw Steering Gear

Removal Procedure

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.

Tools Required

    • J 24319-B Steering Linkage Puller
    • J 5853-B Torque Wrench

    Object Number: 368344  Size: SH
  1. Remove the cotter pins (3) at the steering arm end of the relay rod (1).
  2. Discard the cotter pin.
  3. Remove the relay rod nut (4).

  4. Object Number: 368333  Size: SH
  5. Remove the cotter pin (3).
  6. Discard the cotter pin.
  7. Remove the relay rod nut (4).

  8. Object Number: 215902  Size: SH
  9. Use theJ 24319-B in order to remove the relay rod.

  10. Object Number: 215964  Size: SH
  11. Inspect the relay rod (6) for damage.
  12. Inspect the end assembly (5, 7) stud threads for damage.
  13. Inspect the end assembly (5, 7) rubber seals for the following conditions:
  14. • Damage
    • Deterioration
  15. Install the relay rod nuts (3, 8).
  16. Use the J 5853-B in order to measure the torque required to turn the ball stud.
  17. Replace the relay rod (6) if the turning torque is less than 0.5 N·m (5 lb in).

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 368333  Size: SH
  1. Install the relay rod assembly (2) to the pitman arm (1).
  2. Install the relay rod nut (4).

  3. Object Number: 368344  Size: SH
  4. Install the relay rod end assembly (1) to the steering arm (2).
  5. Install the relay rod nut (4).

  6. Object Number: 215964  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.

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

  7. Advance the relay rod nuts (3, 8) to the nearest cotter pin slot.
  8. Tighten the relay rod nuts (3, 8).
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the relay rod nut to 130 N·m (95 lb ft).

  10. Install the new cotter pins (2).
  11. Lubricate the relay rod with the chassis lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations and Maintenance Schedule .

Relay Rod Replacement TRW Ross Steering Gear

Removal Procedure

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.

Tools Required

J 26813-B Steering Linkage Puller


    Object Number: 368371  Size: SH
  1. Remove the cotter pin (4).
  2. Discard the cotter pin.
  3. Remove the relay rod/pitman arm nut (3).

  4. Object Number: 215973  Size: SH
  5. Use theJ 26813-B in order to remove the relay rod from the pitman arm.

  6. Object Number: 368344  Size: SH
  7. Remove the cotterpin (3).
  8. Remove the nut (4).
  9. Use theJ 26813-B in order to remove the relay rod from the steering arm.

  10. Object Number: 216102  Size: SH
  11. Inspect the relay rod (10) for damage
  12. Inspect the end assembly stud threads for damage.
  13. Inspect the assembly rubber seals for the following conditions:
  14. • Damage
    • Deterioration
  15. Install the nuts (9, 12).
  16. Use a torque wrench in order to measure the torque used to turn the ball stud.
  17. Replace the relay rod if the turning torque is less than 0.5 N·m (5 lb in).

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 368371  Size: SH
  1. Install the relay rod (2) ball joint-pitman arm end to the pitman arm (1).
  2. Install the pitman arm/relay rod nut (3).

  3. Object Number: 368344  Size: SH
  4. Install the relay rod (1) ball joint steering arm end to the steering arm (2).
  5. Install the nut (4).

  6. Object Number: 216102  Size: SH

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

  7. Advance the relay rod nuts (9, 12) to the nearest cotter pin slot.
  8. 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.

  9. Tighten the relay rod ball joint nuts (9, 12).
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the relay rod nuts to 160 N·m (120 lb ft).

  11. Install new cotter pins
  12. Lubricate the relay rod with chassis lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations and Maintenance Schedule .