Installation 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.

Clean all grease and contaminants from the tapered section and the threads of the upper ball joint, the lower ball joint, and the tie rod end.
Clean and inspect the taper holes and the mounting surfaces of the steering knuckle. If any of the tapered holes are elongated, out of round, or damaged, replace the steering knuckle.
Install the steering knuckle.

Fig 1: Install Steering Knuckle
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE .
Connect the lower ball joint to the steering knuckle and install the retaining nut.
Tighten

Tighten the lower control arm retaining nut to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).
Connect the upper ball joint to the steering knuckle and install the retaining nut.
Tighten

Tighten the upper control arm retaining nut to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).
Install the brake hose and the bracket retaining bolt to the steering knuckle
Tighten

Tighten the bolt to 9 N.m (80 lb in).
Connect the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle. Refer to TIE ROD REPLACEMENT .
Install the wheel hub and bearing assembly. Refer to Wheel Hub, Bearing, and Seal Replacement (RWD) or Wheel Hub, Bearing, and Seal Replacement (4WD) .

Fig 2: Install Brake Hose & Bracket Retaining Bolt
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the tire and wheel. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
Load the torsion bars. Refer to Torsion Bar Replacement .
Align the vehicle. Refer to MEASURING WHEEL ALIGNMENT (WITH REAR WHEEL STEERING) or MEASURING WHEEL ALIGNMENT (WITHOUT REAR WHEEL STEERING) .
Lower the vehicle.