Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual: Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Inspection

Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual / Chassis / Steering / Hydraulic Steering / Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Inspection

Special Tools

GE-8001 Dial Indicator Set

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.

Note:

This inspection procedure does not supersede local government required inspections that have more stringent requirements.

Inspect the outer tie rod seal. If the outer tie rod seal is torn, replace the outer tie rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
Raise the side of the vehicle being inspected with a floor jack while maintaining contact between the opposite wheel and the shop floor. Support the lower control arm with a floor jack stand as far outboard as possible and remove the floor jack. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.

Install the GE-8001 dial indicator between the outer tie rod and the steering knuckle as shown in the graphic. Note that the tire and wheel assembly is shown removed only for clarification of the GE-8001 dial indicator position.

Grasping the tire at the 3 o'clock (2) and 9 o'clock (1) positions, gently push in on one side of the tire to remove any lash.
Zero the GE-8001 dial indicator .
On the same side of the tire previously pushed inwards, gently pull outwards and measure the lash.
Record the measurement shown on the GE-8001 dial indicator .
If the measured value exceeds 0.5 mm (0.02 in), replace the outer tie rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
Repeat the procedure for the other side.

Steering Linkage Inner Tie Rod Replacement

Steering Linkage Inner Tie Rod Replacement Callout Component Name Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Li ...

Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement

Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement Callout Component Name Preliminary Procedures Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Li ...

Other materials:

Front Seats
The front seats have adjustable head restraints in the outboard seating positions. Adjust the head restraint so that the top of the restraint is at the same height as the top of the occupant's head. This position reduces the chances of a neck injury in a crash. The height of the head r ...

Rear Side Door Upper Rear Trim Panel Replacement (Hatchback)
Rear Side Door Upper Rear Trim Panel Replacement Callout Component Name 1 Rear Side Door Upper Rear Trim Panel Assembly Procedure Pull the door upper rear trim panel away from the rear side door. ...

Transmission Disassemble (Gen 2)
Special Tools 3-9506289 Universal Adapter R-0007758 Holding Fixture S-9407198 Differential Bearing Race Wrench For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools. Attach R-0007758 holding fixture (2) to the transmission. Attach R-0007758 holding fixture (2 ...

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