Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 GMC Safari and 2002 Chevrolet Astro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Important: Use the proper tool in order to separate all of the ball joints.

Raise the vehicle.
Remove the tire and wheel.
Remove the power steering gear. Refer to POWER STEERING GEAR REPLACEMENT (RWD) or POWER STEERING GEAR REPLACEMENT (AWD) .
Remove the pitman arm retaining nut and washer. Mark the pitman arm and the pitman shaft in order to permit proper alignment during assembly.

Fig 1: Removing Pitman Arm Retaining Nut & Washer
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Do not hammer on the pitman arm, pitman arm shaft or puller. Damage to the pitman arm or steering gear may result.
Use the J 29107-A in order to remove the pitman arm.

Fig 2: Removing Pitman Arm

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Inspect the ball stud threads for damage.
Inspect the ball stud seals for excessive wear.
Clean the threads on the ball stud and the ball stud nut.