Steering Knuckle: Removal
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 1990 GMC S15 Pickup, 1990 GMC S15 Jimmy, 1990 GMC Pickup, 1990 GMC Cab & Chassis, and 1990 Chevrolet S10 Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Raise and support vehicle. Unload torsion bar. See Fig 1 . Counting exact number of turns for reassembly reference, back off torsion bar adjusting bolt to ease steering knuckle removal.
- Remove wheel. Install Axle Shaft Boot Seal Protector (J-28712 ) to protect drive axle boot during repair. Depress caliper piston, detach brake caliper and wire aside. Remove brake rotor.
- Remove dust cover, drive axle nut cover, axle nut and washer. Slide hub and bearing assembly off axle shaft. Remove tie rod end nut. Separate tie rod end from steering knuckle.
- On "T" Series, place Ball Joint Separator (J-34026 ) over upper or lower ball joint. Loosen ball joint retainer nut. See Fig 2 . Back off until nut contacts tool. Continue backing off nut until nut forces ball stud out of knuckle. On "K" Series, separate ball joint from steering knuckle using Ball Joint Separator (J-36607 ).
- On all models, remove steering knuckle from vehicle without damaging or moving axle shaft. Inspect knuckle grease seal for cuts, distortion and wear. Check steering knuckle, bearing carrier and wheel bearing for damage. Replace components as necessary.