RAM 2500 Truck 4WD V8-5.9L VIN Z LDC (1998)
2. Position tools as shown to install upper ball stud.
248 FBI Axle
NOTE: The Steering Knuckle must first be removed before servicing the Ball Studs.
Steering Knuckle
Removal
1. Remove hub bearing and axle shaft.
2. Remove tie-rod or drag link end from the steering knuckle arm.
3. Remove the ABS sensor wire and bracket from knuckle.
4. Remove the cotter pin from the upper ball stud nut. Remove the upper and lower ball stud nuts.
5. Strike the steering knuckle with a brass hammer to loosen.
6. Remove knuckle from axle tube yokes.
Installation
1. Position the steering knuckle on the ball studs.
2. Install and tighten lower ball stud nut to 47 Nm (35 ft. lbs.) torque. Do not install cotter pin at this time.
3. Install and tighten upper ball stud nut to 94 Nm (70 ft. lbs.) torque. Advance nut to next slot to line up hole and install new cotter pin.
4. Retorque lower ball stud nut to 190 - 217 Nm (140 - 160 ft. lbs.) torque. Advance nut to next slot to line up hole and install new cotter pin.
5. Install the hub bearing and axle shaft.
6. Install tie-rod or drag link end onto the steering knuckle arm.
7. Install the ABS sensor wire and bracket to the knuckle.
Ball Stud
Removal