GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    •  J 24319-B Universal Steering Linkage Puller
    •  J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)
    •  J 29194 Steering Linkage Installer (14 mm)

Removal Procedure

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  2. Remove the engine protection shield. Refer to Engine Protection Shield Replacement .
  3. Remove the steering linkage shock absorber from the relay rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Shock Absorber Replacement .
  4. Remove the outer tie rod ends. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement .

  5. Object Number: 793270  Size: SH
  6. Remove the idler arm ball stud nut . Do not reuse the nut.

  7. Object Number: 793272  Size: SH
  8. Remove the pitman arm nut . Do not reuse the nut.
  9. Remove the relay rod from the idler arm ball stud using the J 24319-B .
  10. Remove the relay rod from the pitman arm ball stud using the J 24319-B .
  11. Remove the relay rod from the vehicle.
  12. Inspect the threads on the tie rod ends for damage.
  13. Inspect the ball stud threads for damage.
  14. Inspect the ball stud seals for excessive damage.
  15. Clean the threads on the ball studs.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 793270  Size: SH
  1. Install the relay rod to the vehicle.
  2. Install the relay rod to the pitman arm ball stud .

  3. Object Number: 793272  Size: SH
  4. Install the relay rod to the idler arm ball stud . Verify that the seal is seated on the stud

  5. Object Number: 689037  Size: SH
  6. Install the J 29193 or the J 29194 .
  7. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  8. Tighten the steering linkage installer in order to seat the tapers.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the steering linkage installer to 54 N·m (40 lb ft).

  10. Remove the J 29193 or the J 29194 .
  11. Install the new pitman arm prevailing torque nut.
  12. Install the new idler arm prevailing torque nut .
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 60 N·m (44 lb ft).

  14. Install the outer tie rod assemblies. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement .
  15. Install the steering linkage shock absorber to the relay rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Shock Absorber Replacement .
  16. Install the engine protection shield. Refer to Engine Protection Shield Replacement .
  17. Lower the vehicle.
  18. Verify the wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Specifications .