Knuckle and Spindle

Fig. 1: Front hub components for models with drum brakes

Fig. 2: Front hub components for models with disc brakes through 1984

Fig. 3: Front hub components for the 1986 model

Fig. 4: Suspend the caliper out of the way — never allow it to hang from the rubber brake hose

Fig. 5: Use pliers or side-cutters to remove the cotter pin

Fig. 6: Pack the wheel bearings thoroughly with clean grease

Fig. 7: Pressing the grease seal into the front hub

Fig. 8: Tightening the tie rod end to the proper specification

Fig. 9: Rock the tire from the top and bottom to check bearing axial play

Fig. 10: Turn the tire by hand to feel for ease and smoothness of rotation

Fig. 11: Using a spring scale to check rotational force

Fig. 12: Adjust rotational force by loosening or tightening the spindle nut

Fig. 13: When disconnecting any suspension components, it's a good idea to support the lower control arm

Fig. 14: Using a ball joint separator to disconnect the tie rod end from the knuckle

Fig. 15: Disconnecting the lower ball joint — be sure to support the lower control arm, as there is a great deal of spring pressure pushing on it

Fig. 16: Disconnecting the upper ball joint

Fig. 17: Removing the knuckle/spindle assembly

Fig. 18: Carefully clamp the spindle in a vise and unbolt the knuckle arm from the spindle

Fig. 19: After installation, tighten the upper and lower ball joint nuts to the proper specification

CAUTION
The coil spring on 1972–84 models is under great tension! Use a coil spring compressor for safety's sake.

Raise and support the front end on jackstands.
Remove the wheels.
Remove the brake drums or calipers. Suspend the calipers out of the way with a wire. Don't disconnect the brake line.
Remove the hub and bearings.
Remove the tie rod-to-knuckle nut, and, using a ball joint separator, remove the tie rod end from the knuckle.
On models through 1984, remove the shock absorber.
On models through 1984, install a spring compressor on the coil spring.
Support the lower arm with a floor jack.
Remove the cotter pin and nut from the lower ball joint, and, using a ball joint separator, disconnect the lower ball joint from the knuckle.
Remove the cotter pin and nut from the upper ball joint, and, using a ball joint separator, disconnect the upper ball joint from the knuckle.
Pull the knuckle and spindle assembly from the control arms.
The knuckle arm may now be removed.
Clean and inspect all parts for wear or damage. Replace parts as necessary.
Secure the knuckle in a vise and install the knuckle arm. Torque the bolts to 70–74 ft. lbs.
Installation of the knuckle assembly is the reverse of removal. Observe the following torques.
Upper ball joint-to-knuckle:
1972–84 — 50–55 ft. lbs.
1986 — 35–38 ft. lbs.
Lower ball joint-to-knuckle:
1972–84 — 70 ft. lbs.
1986 — 116 ft. lbs.
Tie rod end-to-knuckle: 22–29 ft. lbs.