Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sierra, 2003 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2003 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: When lifting the vehicle do not allow the jack to touch the rear steering gear. If the jack touches the rear steering gear you may damage the gear or the rack and pinion boots. If the boots are damaged replace the rack and pinion boot.

Raise the vehicle. Refer to JACKING AND LIFTING .
Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
Remove the bolt (8) and nut (2) retaining the bracket to the axle.
Remove the bracket (7) from the vehicle.
Remove the bolt (4) retaining the brake hose bracket (3) to the axle.

Fig 1: Brackets, Nuts & Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Using the J 44664 (2), remove the nut (1) retaining the upper ball joint to the steering knuckle.

Fig 2: Removing Upper Ball Joint Nut Using J 44664
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the upper ball joint (3) retaining bolts (2) and stud (1).

Fig 3: Upper Ball Joint, Retaining Bolts & Stud
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Using the J 44663 (2), remove the upper ball joint stud from the steering knuckle.

Fig 4: Removing Upper Ball Joint Stud Using J 44663
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the upper ball joint (1) from the vehicle.

Fig 5: Upper Ball Joint
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.