Suspension System: Front: Knuckle: Removal

Ball stud service procedures below require removal of the hub bearing and axle shaft. Removal and installation of upper and lower ball studs require the use of Tool Kit 6289.

1. Remove hub bearing and axle shaft. (Refer to SUSPENSION/FRONT/HUB/BEARING - REMOVAL)  or (Refer to DIFFERENTIAL & DRIVELINE/FRONT AXLE - 181FBI/AXLE SHAFTS - REMOVAL) .
2. Disconnect the tie-rod or drag link from the steering knuckle arm. (Refer to STEERING/LINKAGE/TIE ROD END - REMOVAL) .
3. Remove the cotter pins from the upper and lower ball studs.
4. Remove the upper and lower ball stud nuts.
5. Using special tool C-4150A separate the ball joints from the steering knuckle. Remove knuckle from ball studs. See Fig 1.

Fig 1: Steering Knuckle Removal/Installation

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.