Front Steering Knuckle: Service and Repair

Wheel Knuckle

Special Tool(s)

Special Tool(s):

Removal and Installation

CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital parts and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. A new part with the same part number must be installed if installation becomes necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.

CAUTION: Do not tighten the lower shock nut until the installation procedure is complete and the weight of the vehicle is resting on the wheel and tire assemblies.

CAUTION: When servicing the lower shock nut, take care not to damage the stabilizer link.

1. Remove the wheel bearing and wheel hub.
2. Remove and discard the tie-rod end nut.
^ To install, tighten to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).
3. Using the special tool, separate the tie-rod end from the wheel knuckle.





4. Remove the wheel speed sensor harness bracket bolt and position the harness aside.
^ To install, tighten to 12 Nm (9 lb-ft).





5. NOTE: Use the hex holding feature to prevent the stud from turning while removing the nut.

Remove and discard the stabilizer bar link lower nut.
^ To install, tighten to 80 Nm (59 lb-ft).
6. Remove and discard the shock absorber lower nut and bolt.
^ To install, tighten to 475 Nm (350 lb-ft).
7. Remove the 3 integrated wheel end bolts.
^ To install, tighten to 15 Nm (11 lb-ft).
8. Remove and discard the upper ball joint nut.
^ To install, tighten to 115 Nm (85 lb-ft).

9. NOTE: Be sure not to damage the ball joint boot when installing the special tool.

Using the special tool, separate the upper ball joint from the wheel knuckle.





10. Remove and discard the lower ball joint nut.
^ To install, tighten to 150 Nm (111 lb-ft).

11. CAUTION: Make sure to use the special tool when separating the lower ball joint from the knuckle to prevent damage to the ball joint boot.

Using the special tool, separate the lower ball joint from the wheel knuckle and remove the wheel knuckle.





12. If necessary, remove the 3 brake disc shield bolts and remove the brake disc shield.
^ To install, tighten to 17 Nm (13 lb-ft).

13. CAUTION: Do not tighten the lower shock nut until the installation procedure is complete and the weight of the vehicle is resting on the wheel and tire assemblies.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.
14. Check and, if necessary, align the front end.