GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 GMC_Truck 🢒 1999 🢒 GMC K Pickup - 4WD 🢒 General Information 🢒 General Information 🢒 Relay Rod Replacement

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

    •  J 24319-01 Universal Steering Linkage Puller
    •  J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)
    •  J 29194 Steering Linkage Installer (14 mm)
  1. Raise the vehicle.
  2. Suitably support the vehicle with jack stands. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

    3. Object Number: 245385 Size: SH
  3. Remove the steering shock absorber from the relay rod (10), if equipped. Refer to Steering Linkage Shock Absorber Replacement .

    4. Important: Use the proper tool in order to separate all the tie rod and the ball joints.

  4. Remove the inner tie rod ball joint from the relay rod.

    5. Refer to Tie Rod Replacement .

  5. Remove the idler arm ball stud nut.

    6. Do NOT reuse.

  6. Remove the Pitman arm nut (8).

    7. Do NOT reuse.

  7. Remove the relay rod from the idler arm ball stud using the J 24319-01 .
  8. Remove the relay rod from the Pitman arm ball stud using the J 24319-01 .
  9. Drag the link from the Pitman shaft, if equipped. Refer to Drag Link Replacement .
  10. Inspect the threads on the tie rod for damage.
  11. Inspect the ball stud threads for damage.
  12. Inspect the ball stud seals for excessive wear.
  13. Clean the threads on the ball stud.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 245385 Size: SH
  1. Install the relay rod (10) to the idler arm ball stud.
  2. Install the relay rod to the Pitman arm ball stud.
    3. 2.1. Make sure the seal is on the stud.
    2.2. Install the J 24319-01 or the J 29194 to the ball stud.
    2.3. Tighten the steering linkage installer to 62 N·m (46 lb ft) in order to seat the tapers.
    2.4. Remove the J 24319-01 or the J 29194 .
  3. Install the new idler arm prevailing torque nut.

    4. 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.

    Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 62 N·m (46 lb ft).

  4. Install the new Pitman arm prevailing torque nut.
  5. Install the tie rod inner ball joints to the relay rod.
  6. Install the steering shock absorber to the relay rod, if equipped.