Center Link: Service and Repair
Relay Rod Replacement
- Tools Required
- J 24319-B Universal Steering Linkage Puller
- J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)
- J 29194 Steering Linkage Installer (14 mm)
Removal Procedure
1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Remove the engine protection shield, if equipped. Refer to Engine Protection Shield Replacement in Body and Frame.
3. Remove the steering damper from the relay rod, if equipped. Refer to Steering Damper Replacement.
Important: Use the proper tool in order to separate all the tie rod and the ball joints.
4. Remove the tie rod ends (6). Refer to Tie Rod Replacement.
5. Remove the idler arm ball stud nut (10). Do not reuse the nut.
6. Remove the pitman arm nut (8). Do not reuse the nut.
7. Remove the relay rod from the idler arm ball stud using the J24319-B.
8. Remove the relay rod from the pitman arm ball stud using the J24319-B.
9. Remove the relay rod from the vehicle.
10. Inspect the threads on the tie rod ends for damage.
11. Inspect the ball stud threads for damage.
12. Inspect the ball stud seals for excessive damage.
13. Clean the threads on the ball studs.
Installation Procedure
1. Install the relay rod (9) to the vehicle.
2. Install the relay rod (9) to the pitman arm ball stud (2).
Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.
3. Install the relay rod (9) to the idler arm ball stud (1). Ensure the seal is on the stud.
4. Install the J291930r the J2.9194.
5. Tighten the steering linkage installer in order to seat the tapers.
- Tighten the steering linkage installer to 54 Nm (40 ft. lbs.).
6. Remove the J 29193 or the J 29194.
7. Install the new pitman arm prevailing torque nut.
8. Install the new idler arm prevailing torque nut.
- Tighten the nuts to 62 Nm (46 ft. lbs.).
9. Install the tie rod ends. Refer to Tie Rod Replacement.
10. Install the steering dampener to the relay rod, if equipped. Refer to Steering Damper Replacement.
11. Install the engine protection shield, if equipped. Refer to Engine Protection Shield Replacement in Body and Frame.
12. Lower the vehicle.
13. Check the wheel alignment. Refer to Measuring Wheel Alignment.