Disassembly & Reassembly
- Remove cotter pin and castle nut. Using Tie Rod Remover (J-6627-A), remove tie rod outer ball stud. Remove inner ball stud from relay rod in same manner.
- Loosen clamp bolts. Unscrew tie rod end assemblies noting number of turns needed to remove. If tie rod adjuster clamp bolts are rusted, new nuts and bolts must be used
- Apply penetrating oil between clamps and tube. Rotate clamps until they move freely. Use new fasteners. Lubricate tie rod threads with chassis lube. Install tie rod ends. Ensure both ends are threaded an equal distance on tie rod.
- Check that threads on ball studs and nuts are clean and smooth. Check condition of ball stud seals. Replace seals (if necessary). Install ball studs in steering arms and relay rod.
- Install castle nuts and new cotter pins. Adjust toe-in. See WHEEL ALIGNMENT . Before tightening clamp bolts, ensure clamps are between locating dimples at either end of sleeve. Adjuster sleeve slot must not be within open area of clamp jaw opening. See Figure and Figure.
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Rotate both tie rod housings rearward to limit of ball joint travel before tightening clamps. Tighten clamps. Return tie rod assembly to center of travel. Using a bubble protractor and vise grip pliers, check each tie rod for a rotation of at least 35 degrees. Lubricate tie rod ends.
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.