GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Pitman Arm Replacement RWD

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 24319-B Steering Linkage Puller
    • J 29107-A Pitman Arm Puller
    • J 6632-01 Pitman Arm Remover
  1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

  2. Object Number: 291242  Size: SH

    Important: Use the proper tool in order to remove the relay ball stud nut.

  3. Remove the relay rod ball stud at the pitman arm.

  4. Object Number: 397356  Size: SH
  5. Remove the relay rod ball stud from the pitman arm using J 24319-B .
  6. Notice: Do not hammer on the pitman arm, pitman arm shaft or puller. Damage to the pitman arm or steering gear may result.

  7. Remove the pitman arm nut and washer from the steering gear.

  8. Object Number: 291264  Size: SH
  9. Remove the pitman arm from steering gear using J 6632-01 or J 29107-A .
  10. Inspect the ball stud threads for damage.
  11. Inspect the ball stud seals for excessive wear.
  12. Clean the threads on the ball stud and nut.

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)
    • J 29194 Steering Linkage Installer (14 mm)

    Object Number: 291242  Size: SH
  1. Install the pitman arm to the pitman arm shaft.
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the pitman arm washer and nut to the pitman arm shaft.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the pitman arm shaft nut to 250 N·m (185 lb ft).

  5. Install the relay rod ball stud to the pitman arm.
  6. Ensure the seal is on the stud.


    Object Number: 240740  Size: SH
  7. Seat the taper using J 29193 or J 29194 .
  8. Tighten
    Tighten J 29193 or J 29194 to 62 N·m (48 lb ft).

  9. Remove J 29193 or J 29194 from the relay rod ball stud.
  10. Install the new nut to the relay rod ball stud.
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the relay rod ball stud nut to 83 N·m (61 lb ft).

  12. Lower the vehicle.

Pitman Arm Replacement 4WD

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 29107-A Pitman Arm Puller
    • J 6632-01 Pitman Arm Remover
  1. Remove the power steering gear. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement in Power Steering System.
  2. Install power steering gear into vise.

  3. Object Number: 398127  Size: SH
  4. Remove the pitman arm nut and washer from the pitman arm shaft.

  5. Object Number: 398243  Size: SH

    Notice: Do not hammer on the pitman arm, pitman arm shaft or puller. Damage to the pitman arm or steering gear may result.

  6. Disconnect the pitman arm from the pitman shaft using J 6632-01 or J 29107-A .
  7. Inspect the following items:
  8. • The ball stud threads for damage
    • The ball stud seals for excessive wear
  9. Clean the threads on the ball stud.

Installation Procedure

Tools Required

    • J 29193 Steering Linkage Installer (12 mm)
    • J 29194 Steering Linkage Installer (14 mm)

    Object Number: 398127  Size: SH
  1. Install the pitman arm to the pitman arm shaft.
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the pitman arm washer and nut to the pitman arm shaft.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the pitman arm nut to 250 N·m (185 lb ft).

  5. Remove power steering gear from the vise.
  6. Install the power steering gear. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement in Power Steering System.