GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    •  J 24319-01 Universal Steering Linkage Puller
    •  J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)
    •  J 29194 Steering Linkage Installer (14 mm)

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 340481  Size: SH
  1. Raise the vehicle. Suitably support the vehicle with jack stands. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the differential carrier shield.
  3. Remove the steering damper from the relay rod, 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.

  5. Remove the tie rods (6) from the steering knuckle (4). Refer to Tie Rod Replacement .
  6. Remove the tie rod ends (6) from the shafts (7).
  7. Remove the idler arm ball stud nut (10).
  8. Do not reuse the nut.

  9. Remove the pitman arm nut (8).
  10. Do not reuse the nut.


    Object Number: 337571  Size: SH
  11. Remove the relay rod (9) from the idler arm ball stud (1) using the J 24319-01 .
  12. Remove the relay rod (9) from the pitman arm ball stud (2) using theJ 24319-01 .
  13. Remove the relay rod (9) from the vehicle.
  14. Inspect the threads on the tie rod ends for damage.
  15. Inspect the ball stud threads for damage.
  16. Inspect the ball stud seals for excessive damage.
  17. Clean the threads on the ball studs.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 340481  Size: SH
  1. Install the relay rod (9) to the vehicle.
  2. Install the relay rod (9) to the pitman arm ball stud (2).
  3. 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.

  4. Install the relay rod (9) to the idler arm ball stud (1).
  5. • Ensure the seal is on the stud.
    • Install the J 29193 or the J 29194 .
    • Tighten the steering linkage installer in order to seat the tapers.

    Tighten
    Tighten the steering linkage installer to 62 N·m (46 lb ft).

  6. Remove the J 29193 or the J 29194 .
  7. Install the new pitman arm prevailing torque nut (8).
  8. Install the new idler arm prevailing torque nut (10).
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 62 N·m(46 lb ft).

  10. Install the tie rod ends (6) to the shafts (7).
  11. Install the tie rod ends (6) to the steering knuckle (4). Refer to Tie Rod Replacement .
  12. Install the steering shock absorber to the relay rod, if equipped. Refer to Steering Linkage Shock Absorber Replacement .
  13. Install the differential carrier shield.
  14. Lower the vehicle.
  15. Adjust the front toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement in Wheel Alignment.