GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 24319-B Universal Steering Linkage Puller
    •  J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)
    •  J 29194 Steering Linkage Installer (14 mm)

Removal Procedure

Important: Do not free the ball stud by using a pickle fork or a wedge type tool. Damage to the seal or bushing may result.

  1. Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle with safety stands.

  2. Object Number: 310197  Size: SH
  3. Remove the nut (1) from the outer or inner tie rod ball stud (3).

  4. Object Number: 643351  Size: SH
  5. Use theJ 24319-B in order to remove the outer tie rod ball stud from the steering knuckle.
  6. Use the J 24319-B in order to remove the inner tie rod ball stud from the relay rod.

  7. Object Number: 291260  Size: SH
  8. Remove the tie rod ends from the adjuster tube. Loosen the clamp bolts (2) and unscrew the tie rod end assemblies.

Inspection Procedure

   • 
  • Clean the threads on the ball stud and the nut.
  •    • 
  • Clean the tapered surfaces.
  •    • 
  • Inspect the tie rod end for damage.
  •    • 
  • Inspect the tie rod end seals for excessive wear.
  •    • 
  • Inspect the threads on the tie rod and the tie rod end for damage.
  •    • 
  • Inspect the ball stud threads for damage.
  •    • 
  • Inspect the adjuster tube for bent or damaged threads.
  • Installation Procedure

    1. If you remove the tie rod ends, lubricate the tie rod threads with chassis lubricant. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.

    2. Object Number: 291260  Size: SH
    3. Install the tie rod ends to the adjuster tube (1). The number of threads on both the inner and the outer rod ends must be equal to within 3 threads.

    4. Object Number: 689037  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.

    5. Install the inner tie rod ball stud to the relay rod. Ensure that the seal is on the stud.
    6. Tighten
      Tighten the J 29193 or the J 29194 to 54 N·m (40 lb ft) in order to seat the tapers.

    7. Remove the tool.
    8. Install a new torque prevailing nut to the inner tie rod ball stud.
    9. Tighten
      Tighten the nut to 47 N·m (35 lb ft).

    10. Install the outer tie rod ball studs to the steering knuckle.
    11. Install a new torque prevailing nut.
    12. Tighten
      Tighten the nut to 47 N·m (35 lb ft).


      Object Number: 245399  Size: SH
    13. Adjust the adjuster tube clamp bolts. Before tightening the clamp bolts, ensure that the following conditions occur:
    14. • Position the clamp between the locating dimples at either end of the adjuster tube.
      • Position the clamps within the angular travel (4).
      • Make sure the slot in the sleeve is not positioned within the clamp opening.
    15. Adjust the toe as needed. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment in Wheel Alignment.

    16. Object Number: 298  Size: SH
    17. Rotate the inner and outer tie rod ends to the full travel.
    18. • Maintain the position of each tie rod end while you tighten the clamps in order to ensure free movement of each joint.
      • The clamp ends may touch when the nuts are tightened to specification, but the gap next to the adjuster cannot be less than the minimum dimension.

      Tighten
      Tighten the adjuster tube clamp bolts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).

    19. Remove the safety stands.
    20. Lower the vehicle.