Removal Procedure

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

1. Raise the vehicle.
2. Remove the cotter pin and the castellated nut from the outer tie rod.
   Fig 1: Removing Cotter Pin & Castellated Nut From Outer Tie Rod

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
   NOTE: Do not attempt to disconnect a steering linkage joint by driving a wedge between the joint and the attached part. Seal damage may result which will cause premature failure of the joint.
3. Use the J 24319-B  in order to remove the outer tie rod from the steering knuckle.
   Fig 2: Removing Outer Tie Rod From Steering Knuckle

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
4. Remove the prevailing torque nut from the inner tie rod. Discard the prevailing torque nut.
5. Use the J 6627-A  in order to remove the inner tie rod from the relay rod.
   Fig 3: Removing Inner Tie Rod From Relay Rod

   Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
6. Loosen the adjuster tube clamp bolts (3).
7. Unscrew the tie rod ends (1, 5).
8. Remove the tie rod ends (1, 5) from the adjuster tube (4).
9. Inspect the following components for damage:
   • The threads on the tie rod (1, 5)
   • The ball stud threads
   • The adjuster tube (4) for bending or damaged threads
   • The tie rod end seals for excessive wear
Fig 4: Steering Linkage Components
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
10. Clean the threads on the ball stud and in the ball stud nut.
11. Clean the tapered surfaces.