GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 42188 Ball Joint Septarator


    Object Number: 340932  Size: SH
  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  3. Loosen, do not remove, the outer tie rod end stud nut (2) from the outer tie rod end ball stud.
  4. Install J 42188 between the steering knuckle and the outer tie rod end stud.
  5. Tighten the nut on J 42188 until the steering knuckle and the outer tie rod end stud seperate.
  6. Remove J 42188 and the outer tie rod end stud nut.

  7. Object Number: 82236  Size: SH
  8. Remove the outer tie rod end stud (5) from the steering knuckle (4).
  9. Loosen the jam nut (2) on the inner tie rod assembly.
  10. Remove the outer tie rod end (5) from the inner tie rod assembly (1).

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 82236  Size: SH
  1. Install the outer tie rod end (5) to the inner tie rod assembly (1). Do not tighten the jam nut.
  2. Install the outer tie rod end stud (5) to the steering knuckle (4).
  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 outer tie rod end stud nut (3) to the outer tie rod end stud (5).
  5. Tighten

    1. Tighten the outer tie rod end stud nut to 20 N·m (15 lb ft) to seat the stud.
    2. Turn the nut an additional 160 degrees.
    3. Check for the outer tie rod end stud nut for a minimum final torque of 45 N·m (33 lb ft).

    Object Number: 192067  Size: SH
  6. Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  7. Lower the vehicle.
  8. Important: Do not twist the rack and pinion boot during toe adjustment.

  9. Adjust the wheel toe as necessary by turning the inner tie rod. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment in Wheel Alignment.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the jam nut against the outer tie rod to 60 N·m (44 lb ft).