Steering Knuckle: Removal
- Vent air spring on corner to be serviced. See AIR SPRING FILL OR VENT under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION (AIR SYSTEM & ELECTRICAL). Turn ignition switch so steering column is in unlocked position. Turn air suspension switch, located on left side of trunk, to OFF position.
- Remove and discard axle shaft nut. DO NOT use an impact wrench to remove axle shaft nut. Remove washer from axle shaft. Loosen, but DO NOT remove strut-to-body top mounting nuts. Raise and support vehicle. Remove front wheel.
- Remove height sensor. See HEIGHT SENSOR under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION (AIR SYSTEM & ELECTRICAL). Remove brake hose bracket from strut. Remove and discard tie rod end nut and cotter pin. Separate tie rod end from steering knuckle. Disconnect stabilizer bar link from front spring and strut assembly. DO NOT use air tools to disconnect stabilizer bar link. Remove brake caliper and secure aside. Remove brake rotor.
- Remove and discard lower control arm-to-ball joint nut. Using Tie Rod End Remover (3290-D), separate ball joint from steering knuckle. DO NOT
use hammer to separate ball joint from steering knuckle.CAUTION: DO NOT allow axle to extend outward or CV joint will be damaged.
- Press axle shaft from hub. See Fig 1 . Wire axle shaft so it is supported in a level position. Remove front spring and strut-to-steering knuckle bolt. Using a screwdriver, slightly spread front spring and strut-to-steering knuckle joint.
- Remove rotor splash shield (if damaged). Separate steering knuckle from front spring and strut and remove steering knuckle.