Tacoma Regular Cab 4WD V6-3.4L (5VZ-FE) (1997)
c. Using SST 09610 - 20012, disconnect the tie rod end from the steering knuckle.
3. Remove lower ball joint.
a. Remove the cotter pin and nut from the lower ball joint.
Installation Hint: Torque to 152 Nm (112 ft. lbs.)
b. Using SST 09628 - 62011, disconnect the lower ball joint from the lower suspension arm.
Installation Hint: Face the cotter pin hole of the lower ball joint forward.
c. Remove the 4 bolts.
d. While lifting the upper suspension arm and steering knuckle, remove the lower ball joint.
Removal Hint: After removing the lower ball joint, support the upper suspension arm and steering knuckle securely.
INSPECTION
Inspect ball joint for rotation condition.
a. Flip the ball joint stud back and forth 5 times before installing the nut.
b. Using a torque wrench, turn the nut continuously one turn every 2 - 4 seconds and take the torque reading on the 5th turn.
Torque (turning): 0.5 - 3.9 Nm (4 - 35 inch lbs.)