Tools and Materials Needed:
- Jack and jack stands
- Wheel chocks
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Socket wrench set
- Ball-joint separator
- Hammer
- Flathead screwdriver
- Replacement swivel joints
- Grease
- Thread locker
Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle
- Park your vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Use wheel chocks to secure the rear wheels.
- Jack up the front of the vehicle and support it on jack stands placed under the chassis.
Step 2: Remove the Front Wheels
- Use a socket wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts on the front wheels.
- Take off the wheels and set them aside.
Step 3: Remove the Brake Caliper
- Locate the brake caliper (mounted on the front wheel hub).
- Remove the bolts that hold the caliper in place.
- Lift the caliper off the brake disc and hang it out of the way with a piece of wire or rope.
Step 4: Remove the Hub Assembly
- Undo the bolts that secure the hub assembly to the steering knuckle.
- Use a ball joint separator to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
- Pull the hub assembly out of the wheel hub.
Step 5: Remove the Swivel Joint
- Locate the swivel joint at the top of the steering knuckle.
- Use a flathead screwdriver to pry off the dust cover from the swivel joint.
- Unbolt the swivel joint from the steering knuckle.
- Remove the old swivel joint.
Step 6: Install the New Swivel Joint
- Apply grease to the new swivel joint.
- Position the new swivel joint into place on the steering knuckle.
- Secure the swivel joint with the bolts.
Step 7: Reinstall the Hub Assembly
- Push the hub assembly back into the wheel hub.
- Bolt the hub assembly to the steering knuckle.
Step 8: Reinstall the Brake Caliper
- Lift the brake caliper back into position and secure it with the bolts.
Step 9: Reinstall the Wheels
- Put the wheels back on and tighten the lug nuts.
Step 10: Lower the Vehicle
- Lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Step 11: Test Drive
- Take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure that the steering feels smooth and the vehicle handles correctly.
Important Note:
- It's highly recommended to follow the specific steps and instructions provided in your vehicle's repair manual for the accurate and safe completion of this task.
