Special Tools
|     •  | J 24319-B Steering Linkage and Tie Rod Puller
  | 
 
|     •  | SA91100C Tie Rod Separator
  | 
 
For equivalent regional tools, refer to 
Special Tools.
Removal Procedure
- Remove the front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to 
Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
 
- Remove the steering linkage outer tie rod nut (1).
 
- Loosen the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (1).
 
Caution: Do not attempt to free the ball stud by using a pickle fork or wedge type tool, because seal or bushing damage could result. Use the proper tool to separate all ball joints.
- Use the 
J 24319-B puller
 for Buick, GMC, and Chevrolet and the 
SA91100C separator
 for Saturn to separate the steering
linkage outer tie rod (1) from the steering knuckle (2).
 
Note: Count the total number of complete rotations needed to remove the steering linkage outer tie rod from the steering linkage inner tie rod.
- Remove the steering linkage outer tie rod (2) from the steering linkage inner tie rod (1).
 
Installation Procedure
Note: Install the steering linkage outer tie rod the same number of complete rotations counted when removing it prior.
- Install the steering linkage outer tie rod (3) to the steering linkage inner tie rod (1) but do not tighten the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (2).
 
- Install the steering linkage outer tie rod (2) to the steering knuckle (1).
 
Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.
Note: 
|    •  | The fastener and its counterpart are clean and free from rust. | 
 
|    •  | The fastener develops 2 N·m (18 lb in) of torque (drag) against its counterpart prior to the fastener seating.  | 
 
If the fastener does not meet these criteria then REPLACE the fastener.
- Install the steering linkage outer tie rod nut (1) and tighten to 
30 N·m (22 lb ft) plus 120 degrees (2 flats).
 
Note: Ensure that 2.5-4.5 steering linkage outer tie rod end threads are visible beyond the steering linkage outer tie rod nut nylon.
- Tighten the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (1) and tighten to 
75 N·m (55 lb ft).
 
- Install the front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to 
Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
 
- Adjust the front toe. Refer to 
Front Toe Adjustment.