General Steps (Highly Simplified):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Use jack stands to securely support the vehicle. Engage the parking brake.
2. Wheel Removal: Remove the wheels from the front axle you're working on.
3. Brake Caliper and Rotor Removal: Remove the brake caliper and rotor assembly. You might need to use a C-clamp to compress the caliper piston. Support the caliper with a wire or secure it to prevent damage to the brake line.
4. Steering Components: Disconnect the steering linkage from the knuckle. This often involves removing cotter pins, castle nuts, and tie rod ends. You'll likely need a tie rod separator tool.
5. Drive Axle Disconnect (If Applicable): Depending on the year and model, you might need to disconnect the CV axle from the transmission or differential. This usually involves removing a retaining clip or bolt. You may need a special CV axle puller tool.
6. Ball Joint Separation: Separate the lower ball joint from the control arm. This typically requires a ball joint separator tool.
7. Upper Control Arm Disconnect (If Applicable): Some models might require disconnecting the upper control arm.
8. Knuckle Removal: With all components disconnected, the steering knuckle (and attached axle) should be free to be removed. You may need to carefully maneuver it out from the suspension.
9. Axle Shaft Removal (If Applicable): Once the knuckle is removed, the axle shaft can be extracted.
10. Reassembly: Reassembly is the reverse of the removal process. Pay close attention to torque specifications for all fasteners.
Important Considerations:
* Year and Model Specifics: The exact procedure varies considerably depending on the year of your Grand Prix. Suspension components changed over the years.
* Special Tools: You will need various specialized tools, including a ball joint separator, tie rod separator, possibly a CV axle puller, and various sockets and wrenches.
* Repair Manual: A factory service manual or a reputable aftermarket repair manual for your specific vehicle is absolutely essential. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and crucial information to avoid damage.
* Professional Help: If you're not comfortable working on car suspension and drivetrain components, it's strongly recommended that you take your Grand Prix to a qualified mechanic. This is a complex job that can easily result in damage or injury if not done correctly.
This information is for guidance only. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle before attempting any repair. Improper repair can lead to serious injury or damage to your vehicle.
