Removal and Installation

CAUTION: Before removing front axle assembly, disconnect the ABS wheel sensor from the assembly. Move it away from the front axle assembly area. Failure to do so may result in damage to sensor wires and the sensor becoming inoperative.

REMOVAL
1. Remove wheel bearing lock nut.





2. Remove brake caliper assembly and rotor. Brake hose need not be disconnected from brake caliper.

CAUTION:
^ Suspend brake caliper with wire so as not to stretch brake hose.
^ Be careful not to depress brake pedal, or caliper piston will pop out.
^ Make sure brake hose is not twisted.





3. Separate tie rod from steering knuckle with ball joint remover tool No. HT7252000, or equivalent.

CAUTION: Install stud nut on stud bolt to prevent damage to stud bolt.





4. Separate drive shaft from steering knuckle by lightly tapping it. If it is hard to remove, use a puller.

CAUTION: When removing drive shaft, cover boots with a shop towel to prevent damage to them.





5. Remove strut lower mounting bolts.





6. Loosen lower ball joint tightening nut.
7. Separate steering knuckle from lower ball joint stud with ball joint remover tool.
8. Remove steering knuckle from transverse link.

INSTALLATION
1. Install steering knuckle with wheel hub.
2. Replace strut lower mounting nuts.





3. When installing steering knuckle to strut, apply oil to threaded portion of drive shaft and both sides of plain washer. Also, be sure to hold bolts while tightening nuts. Torque to 114 - 133 Nm (84 - 98 ft. lbs.).
4. Tighten wheel bearing lock nut to 196 - 275 Nm (145 - 202 ft. lbs.).
5. Check wheel bearing axial end play. Axial end play: 0.05 mm (0.0020 inch) or less.