OEM 2003 Cadillac Escalade Steering Knuckle

2003 Cadillac Escalade Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to service and repair the steering knuckle in a coil spring suspension system on 2003 Cadillac Escalade?

  A: Before starting work on the Steering Knuckle in a coil spring suspension system the vehicle must be lifted and supported while removing the wheel and tire. Next support the lower Control Arm by using a proper jack while you perform the Wheel Hub and bearing removal. Disabled systems require the user to detach the electronic suspension control (ESC) link rod sensor and remove the outer tie rod from the knuckle. Before ball-joint separation begin by removing the brake hose bracket retaining bolt attached to the knuckle then use j 43631 (Ball Joint Remover) with j 45851 (Ball Joint Separator Protector Adapters) to remove the retaining nut from the upper Ball Joint of the Steering Knuckle. Finally detach the lower Ball Joint from the knuckle. All dirt and grease needs to be completely cleaned off the tapered surfaces and threaded areas of both upper and lower ball joints together with the Tie Rod End before the Steering Knuckle is removed. Examine both the tapered holes and mounting regions of the Steering Knuckle. Replace the Steering Knuckle when any elongated or damaged or out of round tapered holes are discovered. After securing the lower Ball Joint in position, tighten the retaining nut to 100 n.m (74 lb ft). Torque the retaining nut of the upper Ball Joint to achieve 50 n.m (37 lb ft) of tightness. Secure the brake hose bracket retaining bolt onto the knuckle with 9 n.m (80 lb in) of force before attaching the outer tie rod to the Steering Knuckle. Reposition the Wheel Hub alongside the bearing, and join the sensor to the link rod of the esc when present, reinstall the tire with wheel and finally drop the safety stands then lower the vehicle.