Removal and installation the steering knuckle (Opel Astra G)

The authors of this Manual recommend replacing the bolts and nuts that secure the steering knuckles regardless of their condition. To perform the procedure, you will need a ball joint puller.

The front wheel camber is regulated by the position of the bolt securing the knuckle to the strut. Before removing the bolts, mark the mounting position of the knuckle relative to the strut. Upon completion of assembly, the geometry of the front suspension is subject to inspection and, if necessary, adjustment in the conditions of a car service workshop.

Removal

1. Set the parking brake, jack up the front of the vehicle and place it on stands. Remove the corresponding front wheel.

2. Loosen the nut securing the steering tie rod end to the steering knuckle arm. Using a special puller, release the end from the arm (see Fig. Removal and installation tie rod ends).

3. Remove the hub assembly (see Checking the condition and replacing the hub assembly).

4. Mark the position of the knuckle relative to the suspension strut (see warning at the beginning), loosen the two nuts and remove the mounting bolts (please note that the bolts are installed with their heads facing forward on the vehicle). Separate the ball joint from the knuckle. Remove the knuckle from the strut. The mounting bolts and nuts must be replaced without fail.

Installation

1. Place the steering knuckle on the strut and insert new mounting bolts. Make sure that the mounting marks made during dismantling are correctly aligned, then screw on the mounting nuts and tighten them in several stages to the required force (see Fig. Specifications).



2. Install the hub assembly (see Checking the condition and replacing the hub assembly).

3. Connect the steering rod end to the knuckle and tighten its nut to the required torque.

4. Install the front wheel and lower the vehicle to the ground.

5. Take the vehicle to a service station to have the front wheel alignment checked and, if necessary, adjusted.