Outer Tie Rod: Installation

Thread outer tie rod onto inner tie rod.

Fig 1: Threading Outer Tie Rod Onto Inner Tie Rod
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: The tie rod ends must be thoroughly cleaned before installing and tightening.
Install tie rod end into steering knuckle.
Using Linkage Installer J44015 (or equivalent), seat the tie rod end into the knuckle and tighten. Tighten tie rod end linkage installer to 45 N.m (33 ft lbs).
CAUTION: Use a new nut. Torque retention of old nut may not be sufficient.

CAUTION: Hold ball stud from turning when installing nut. The boot can become torn and damaged if the ball stud turns.
Check boot for damage and replace part if damaged.
Remove linkage installer and install new tie rod end nut and tighten. Tighten tie rod end-to-steering knuckle nut to 60 N.m (44 ft lbs).

Fig 2: Installing New Tie Rod End Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Hand tighten inner tie rod-to-outer tie rod jam nut.
CAUTION: Before installing wheels, remove rust or corrosion from wheel mounting surfaces and brake rotors. Failure to do so can cause wheel bolts to loosen in service.

Fig 3: Tightening Inner Tie Rod-To-Outer Tie Rod Jam Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install wheel and tire assemblies
Install wheel bolts and tighten in a crisscross pattern.
1. Hand tighten all five wheel bolts.
2. Use a torque wrench to tighten wheel bolts using a crisscross pattern. Tighten wheel bolts (initial torque) to 63 N.m (46 ft lbs).
3. Use a torque wrench to final tighten wheel bolts using a crisscross pattern. Tighten wheel bolts (final torque) to 125 N.m (92 ft lbs).
Set toe. (Refer to ALIGNMENT, WHEELS & TIRES .)
Lower Vehicle.