GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 36226 Ball Joint Separator

    Notice: Use only the recommended tools for separating the ball joint from the knuckle. Failure to use recommended tools may cause damage to the ball joint and seal.

  1. Raise the vehicle and suitably support the frame allowing the control arms to hang free. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the wheel and tire.

  3. Object Number: 144019  Size: SH
  4. Remove the stabilizer shaft to control arm bolt.
  5. Remove the cotter pin and loosen the nut from the ball stud.

  6. Object Number: 155693  Size: SH

    Notice: Care must be taken not to overextend tri-pot joints. Over extension of the joint could result in separation of internal components which could go undetected and result in failure of the joint.

  7. Using the J 36226 , remove the ball joint from the steering knuckle.

  8. Object Number: 196121  Size: SH
  9. Remove the control arm mounting bolts.
  10. Remove the control arm from the frame.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 196121  Size: SH
  1. Install the control arm to the frame.
  2. Install the control arm mounting bolts, washers, and nuts.
  3. Important: Do not tighten the control arm nuts at this time. The weight of the vehicle must be supported by the control arms such that the vehicle design trim heights are obtained before tightening control arm mounting nuts.

  4. Install the stabilizer shaft to control arm.

  5. Object Number: 144019  Size: SH

    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.

  6. Install the ball joint to the steering knuckle.
  7. Tighten

        • Tighten the stabilizer shaft link assembly to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).
        • Tighten the joint nut to 10 N·m (88 lb in). Then tighten an additional 120 degrees (2 flats on nut) during which a torque of 55 N·m (41 lb ft) must be obtained.
  8. Install the cotter pin. In order to align the slot, tighten the nut up to one more flat.
  9. Install the wheel and the tire.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the wheel nuts to 140 N·m (100 lb ft).

  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Check the trim height.
  13. Tighten
    Tighten the control arm nuts in the following sequence:

    • Front mounting nut to 190 N·m (140 lb ft).
    • Rear mounting nut to 123 N·m (91 lb ft).