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HOMESERVICE MANUALSCHEVROLET2003TRAILBLAZER 4.2 S, 4WDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 1038 (FRONT SUSPENSION SYSTEM)REPAIR INSTRUCTIONSSTEERING KNUCKLE REPLACEMENT (4WD)INSTALLATION PROCEDURE
2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4.2 S, 4WD

Installation Procedure

2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4.2 S, 4WDSECTION Installation Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Clean all grease and contaminants from the tapered section and the threads of the upper ball joint, the lower ball joint, and the tie rod end.
  2. Clean and inspect the taper holes and the mounting surfaces of the steering knuckle. If any of the tapered holes are elongated, out of round, or damaged, replace the steering knuckle.
  3. Install the steering knuckle.
    Fig 1: Installing The Steering Knuckle (4WD)
    GM371423Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
    4. NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.
  4. Connect the lower ball joint to the steering knuckle and install the retaining nut.

    Tighten:  Tighten the lower control arm retaining nut to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).

  5. Connect the upper ball joint to the steering knuckle and install the retaining nut.

    Tighten:  Tighten the upper control arm retaining nut to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).

    6. Fig 2: View Of Retaining Bolts For Brake Hose And Wheel Speed Sensor Brackets
    GM367084Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  6. Install the brake hose and the bracket retaining bolt to the steering knuckle

    Tighten:  Tighten the bolt to 9 N.m (80 lb in).

  7. Connect the outer tie rod to the steering knuckle. Refer to Tie Rod Replacement in Steering Linkage (Non-Rack and Pinion).
  8. Install the wheel hub and bearing assembly. Refer to Wheel Hub, Bearing, and Seal Replacement (RWD) Wheel Hub, Bearing, and Seal Replacement (4WD) .
  9. Install the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  10. Remove the lower control arm support.
  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Align the vehicle. Refer to Measuring Wheel Alignment (w/Rear Wheel Steering) or Measuring Wheel Alignment (w/o Rear Wheel Steering) in Wheel Alignment.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.