Leading Link (Front Upper)

UPPER LEADING LINK REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
1. Remove in the order indicated in the table.
2. Install in the reverse order of removal.

Upper Leading Link Ball Joint Removal Note
1. Install the SSTs to the ball joint.
2. Tighten the bolt of the SST to 14 - 15 Nm {14 - 160 kgf.cm, 122 - 138 inch lbs.}





CAUTION:
^ Do not tap the ball joint and the stud bolt.
^ Be careful not to make an edge on the knuckle.





3. Tap the knuckle as shown.

Dust Boot (Upper Leading Link) Removal Note





- Carefully remove the dust boot with a chisel.

Dust Boot (Upper Leading Link) Installation Note
1. Wipe any grease off the ball stud.
2. Fill the inside of the new dust boot with grease.





3. Press the boot onto the ball joint by using the SST.
4. Wipe away any excessive Grease.

UPPER LEADING LINK INSPECTION
1. Inspect the link for damage and boot cracks. Replace it as necessary.
2. Inspect the ball joint for looseness. Replace the link as necessary.
3. Shake the ball joint stud at least 5 times.





4. Connect the SST to the stud and measure the rotation torque by using a pull scale.

Rotation torque: 0.3 - 2.0 Nm {3 - 20 kgf.cm, 2.6 - 17 inch lbs.}

Pull scale reading: 3.0 - 20 Nm {0.3 - 2.0 kgf, 0.7 - 4.4 lbs.}

5. If not within the specification, replace the leading link.