Steering Linkage Replacement

The content of this article reflects changes called for in TSB 26-05-98.

CAUTION:





- To avoid damaging ball stud seals, use puller C-3894-A, or equivalent to remove tie rod ends.

Alignment Bar/Drag Link Adjustment:

- Do not loosen/move alignment bar or alignment bar clamp. The bar is used as a locator for the adjuster clamps. This prevents adjuster clamps interference with the steering damper.

REMOVAL
1. Remove tie rod and steering damper from drag link.
2. Remove drag link tie-rod end from steering knuckle and pitman arm.
3. Mark the pitman arm and shaft positions for installation reference. Remove the nut and washer from the pitman arm. Remove the pitman arm with Puller C-4150A, or equivalent.
4. Remove tie rod from steering knuckle.

NOTE: When installing linkage tighten nuts to proper torque, then align cotter pin slot by tightening nut if necessary.

INSTALLATION
1. Align reference marks and install pitman arm.
2. Install the lock washer and retaining nut on the pitman shaft and tighten nut to 251 Nm (185 ft. lbs.).
3. Install drag-link ball studs to steering knuckle and pitman arm. Install the retaining nuts and tighten to 88 Nm (65 ft. lbs.). Install new cotter pins.
4. Install tie-rod on steering knuckle and drag link. Tighten the nuts to 88 Nm (65 ft. lbs.). Install new cotter pins.
5. Install steering damper on drag-link and tighten nut to 68 Nm (50 ft. lbs.). Install new cotter pin.
6. Remove the supports and lower the vehicle to the surface. Center steering wheel and adjust toe. Refer to Alignment.
7. After adjustment tighten tie-rod adjustment sleeve clamp bolts to 61 Nm (45 ft. lbs.).

NOTE: Position the clamp on the sleeve so retaining bolt is located on the bottom side of the sleeve.