Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 GMC Sierra, 2010 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, and 2010 Chevrolet Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: For vehicles equipped with the aluminum lower control arm, the ball joint is NOT service separately. If the ball joint in the aluminum lower control arm is found to have excessive wear and is damaged, replace the lower control arm as an assembly.

Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
Remove the stabilizer shaft link from the lower control arm. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement (2500, 3500) or Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement (1500) .
Remove the wheel drive shaft, if equipped. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement (2500) or Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement (1500) .
Using mechanics wire or equivalent, support the knuckle assembly and upper control arm.

Fig 1: View Of Lower Ball Joint Retaining Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove and discard the lower ball joint retaining nut.

Fig 2: View Of Lower Shock Absorber Module Mount Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the lower shock module bolts from the lower control arm.

Fig 3: Separating Lower Ball Joint From Steering Knuckle

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Using the J 43631 and the J 45851 , remove the lower ball joint from the steering knuckle. See Special Tools .

Fig 4: Lower Control Arm

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the lower control arm nuts (1) and washers (2).
Remove the control arm bolts (3).
Remove the control arm (4).