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Home >> Saturn >> 2005 >> Vue Red Line, FWD >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 34 (Front Suspension System) >> Repair Instructions >> Steering Knuckle Replacement >> Installation Procedure

Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Saturn L300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Install the hub/bearing to the steering knuckle. Refer to Wheel Bearing/Hub Replacement - Front .
  2. Position the steering knuckle on the lower control arm ball stud, while guiding the drive axle through the steering knuckle hub/bearing.
  3. Fig 1: View Of Strut-To-Steering Knuckle Nuts & Bolts
    GM866391Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  4. Install new strut to knuckle nuts and bolts. Snug the bolts only at this time.
  5. Fig 2: Disconnecting Lower Control Arms
    GM891570Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
    NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.
  6. Install the lower control arm ball stud to steering knuckle pinch bolt and nut.

    Tighten:  Tighten the bolt and nut to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).

  7. Fig 3: View Of Tie Rod, Knuckle & Tapered Ball Stud
    GM891579Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  8. Using the J 44015  , install the tie rod to the steering knuckle. Set the taper by tightening the J 44015  to 45 N.m (33 lb ft).
  9. Fig 4: View Of Tie Rod End To Steering Knuckle
    GM854972Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
    IMPORTANT: Do not allow the ball stud to turn when installing the tie rod to steering knuckle nut.
  10. Remove the J 44015  and install a new tie rod to steering knuckle nut.

    Tighten:  Tighten the nut to 60 N.m (45 lb ft).

  11. Inspect the tie rod boot for damage, replace if necessary.
  12. Fig 5: Removing/Installing Front Wheel Speed Sensor
    GM891918Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
    IMPORTANT: The ABS sensor bracket has a locating pin. The pin must be lactated in the steering knuckle locating hole.
  13. If equipped with ABS, install the ABS sensor assembly to the steering knuckle.

    Tighten:  Tighten the ABS sensor bracket bolt to 8 N.m (71 lb in).

  14. Install the brake rotor and hydraulic brake caliper. Refer to Brake Rotor Replacement - Front in Disc Brakes.
  15. Fig 6: Removing/Installing Drive Axle Hub Nut
    GM891580Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  16. Install the washer and a new hub/bearing nut to the drive axle.

    Tighten: 

    1. Tighten the nut to 115 N.m (85 lb ft).
    2. Back of the nut and tighten to 20 N.m (15 lb ft) plus an additional 90 degrees.

  17. Install a new cotter pin through the alignment hole in the drive axle. Rotate the drive axle nut clockwise as necessary to align the castle nut slots.
  18. Install the tire and wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  19. Lower the vehicle.
  20. Align the front end. Refer to Measuring Wheel Alignment in Wheel Alignment.