Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement

Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement

Special Tools

* J-24319-B - Steering Linkage and Tie Rod Puller

* SA91100C - Tie Rod Separator

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools Tools and Equipment.

Removal Procedure

1. Remove the front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Removal and Replacement.





2. Remove the steering linkage outer tie rod nut (1).





3. Loosen the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (1).





Caution:
Do not attempt to free the ball stud by using a pickle fork or wedge type tool, because seal or bushing damage could result. Use the proper tool to separate all ball joints.

4. Use the J-24319-B - puller for Buick, GMC, and Chevrolet and the SA91100C - separator for Saturn in order to disconnect the steering linkage outer tie rod from the steering knuckle.





5. Remove the steering linkage outer tie rod (2) from the steering linkage inner tie rod (1). Count the total number of complete rotations necessary in order to remove the steering linkage outer tie rod from the steering linkage inner tie rod.

Installation Procedure





1. Install the steering linkage outer tie rod (3) to the steering linkage inner tie rod (1) with the same number of complete rotations counted during the removal. Do not tighten the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (2), yet.





2. Connect the steering linkage outer tie rod (2) to the steering knuckle (1).





3. Ensure the threads on the steering linkage outer tie rod nut (1) and on the outer tie rod stud are clean an free from corrosion. If the threads on a part are corroded, replace the corroded part.

Caution:
Refer to Fastener Caution Fastener Caution.

4. Install the steering linkage outer tie rod nut to the outer tie rod stud. Ensure the nut develops 2 Nm (18 lb in) of torque, or drag, on the stud prior to the nut seating. If the nut does NOT meet this specification, replace the nut.

5. Tighten the steering linkage outer tie rod nut to 30 Nm (22 lb ft).

6. Tighten the steering linkage outer tie rod nut an additional 120 degrees.

7. Ensure that 2.5-4.5 steering linkage outer tie rod threads are visible beyond the steering linkage outer tie rod nut nylon.

8. Install the front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Removal and Replacement.

9. Measure and adjust the front toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment - Steering Wheel Angle and/or Front Toe Adjustment Wheel Alignment - Steering Wheel Angle and/or Front Toe Adjustment.





10. Tighten the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (1) to 75 Nm (55 lb ft).