Outer Tie Rod

Removal Procedure

- Tools Required
- J6627-A Tie Rod / Wheel Stud Remover
- J42089 Linkage Installer

Notice: Do not attempt to disconnect a steering linkage joint by driving a wedge between the joint and the attached part. Seal damage may result which will cause premature failure of the joint.

Important: The tie rod adjuster parts often become rusted in service. Discard the rusted nuts and bolts if the torque to remove the tie rod clamp nut from the bolt after the breakaway exceeds 9 Nm (80 ft. lbs.). Apply penetrating oil between the tie rod clamp and the adjuster. Rotate the clamps until they move freely. Install the new bolts and nuts that are the same part number to ensure proper clamp at the specified torque.

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Loosen the tie rod clamp bolt at the end of the tie rod adjuster.
3. Remove the tie rod ball stud nut.
4. Use the J6627-A to remove the tie rod ball stud from the relay rod.
5. Remove the tie rod from the tie rod adjuster.
6. Inspect the threads on the ball stud. The ball stud may turn inside the outer tie rod when attempting to tighten the nut during the installation procedure if the threads are not clean if the threads are not smooth.

Important: Count the number of turns required to remove the tie rod from the tie rod adjuster.





7. Inspect the ball stud taper for nicks.

Installation Procedure





1. Use EP Chassis Lubricant, GM P/N 1052356 or equivalent, to lubricate the tie rod adjuster threads.
2. Use the same number of turns counted in the removal procedure to thread the end of the inner tie rod into the tie rod adjuster.
3. Install the tie rod ball stud into the relay rod.
4. Install the J42089 to tie rod ball stud.
- Tighten the J42089 to 30 Nm (22 ft. lbs.) to allow the tie rod ball stud taper to seat.
5. Remove the J42089from the tie rod ball stud.

Important: Use a new self-locking tie rod ball stud nut.

Ensure that the adjuster and the clamp are properly positioned before tightening the tie rod adjuster clamp bolt. Refer to Tie Rod Adjuster Replacement for the proper adjuster and the proper clamps adjustment.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

6. Install the ball stud nut.
- Tighten the ball stud nut to 60 Nm (44 ft. lbs.).
7. Tighten the tie rod adjuster clamp bolt.
- Tighten the tie rod adjuster clamp bolt to 15 Nm(11 ft. lbs.).
8. Lower the vehicle.
9. Adjust the toe to the proper specification. Refer to Measuring Wheel Alignment.