Steering knuckle – removal and installation

Independent front suspension

1. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel.

2. On 4WD models, unscrew the driveaxle/hub nut with a socket and large breaker bar (see Clutch and driveline). Brace a large prybar across two of the wheel studs or insert a large screw­driver through the center of the brake caliper and into the disc cooling vanes to prevent the hub from turning as the nut is loosened.

3. Remove the disc brake caliper and disc (see Brakes). If equipped, disconnect the electrical connector from the wheel speed sensor and remove the sensor.

4. Disconnect the tie-rod from the steering knuckle (Steering linkage – removal and installation).

5. Remove the driveaxle/hub nut.

6. Support the lower control arm with a floor jack. Warning: The jack must remain in this position throughout the entire procedure.

7. Separate the lower control arm from the steering knuckle (Lower control arm (front) – removal and installation).

8. Separate the upper control arm from the steering knuckle (Upper control arm (front) – removal and installation).

9. Remove the knuckle.

10. Carefully inspect the steering knuckle for cracks, especially around the steering arm and spindle mounting area. Also inspect the balljoint stud holes. If they’re elongated, or if you find any cracks in the knuckle, replace the steering knuckle.

11.  Installation is the reverse of removal.
Tighten all suspension fasteners to the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifications.

Link/coil suspension

12. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel.

13. Remove the hub bearing and axle shaft (see Clutch and driveline).

14. Disconnect the tie-rod end or drag link from the steering knuckle (Steering linkage – removal and installation).

15. Remove the wheel speed sensor.

16. Loosen the steering knuckle upper ball-stud nut a few turns, but don’t remove it.

17. Remove the lower balljoint nut. Use a balljoint separation tool to detach the balljoint from the knuckle. Note: If you don’t have the proper balljoint removal tool, a picklefork type balljoint separator can be used, but keep in mind that this type of tool will probably ruin the balljoint boot (see illustration 7.5b).

18. Remove the upper balljoint nut.

19. Separate the steering knuckle. Use a brass hammer to knock it loose if necessary.

20. Installation is the reverse of removal. Tighten all suspension fasteners to the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifications.