Steering Linkage: Installation

NOTE: When connecting the ball stud to the arm or rod, remove the grease on the joint surfaces

Install tie rod ends and relay rod ends. Turn the tie rod ends or relay rod ends equal amounts into the rod tube. Tie rod assembly should be approximately 48.54" (1233 mm). The remaining length of threads on both tie rod ends or real rod ends should be equal. See Fig 1. Temporarily tighten the tie rod end or relay rod end clamps.

Fig 1: Measuring Threads Of Tie Rod Ends & Relay Rod
Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
Connect the tie rod assembly to the RH and LH knuckle arms. Torque the 2 nuts to 67 ft. lbs. (91 N.m). Install 2 new cotter pins. After adjusting toe-in, torque the clamp bolts and nuts. Tighten to 27 ft. lbs. (37 N.m).
Connect the relay rod assembly to the knuckle arm. Toque the nut to 67 ft. lbs. (91 N.m). Install a new cotter pin. Torque the clamp bolts and nuts to 27 ft. lbs. (37 N.m).
Secure the damper bracket in a vise. Connect the damper to the damper bracket. Torque a new nut to 54 ft. lbs. (74 N.m)
Connect the damper with damper bracket to the relay rod assembly.Install a new nut and 2 damper bracket set bolts. Tighten nut to 54 ft. lbs. (74 N.m), and the bolts to 29 ft. lbs. (39 N.m).
Align the alignment marks on the pitman arm and the cross shaft, and install the spring washer and set nut. See Figure. Tighten set nut to 130 ft. lbs. (177 N.m).
Connect the pitman arm to the relay rod assembly. Torque the nut to 67 ft. lbs. (91 N.m). Install a new cotter pin.
Install engine under cover. Tighten the 4 bolts.
Check front wheel alignment. For Lexus, see WHEEL ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article. For Toyota, see WHEEL ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article.