How to Replace an Automotive Suspension Spindle - Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

The suspension spindle, also known as the steering knuckle, is a crucial component of your vehicle's suspension system. It connects the wheel hub to the suspension and steering components, allowing smooth handling. A CV drive axle may run through this part to drive the wheels of the car, in either case this guide will show you the correct and safe way to remove the suspension spindle, (steering knuckle).

Tools and Equipment Needed

• Jack and jack stands
• Lug wrench
• Socket set and ratchet
• Torque wrench
• Ball joint separator
• Hammer and pry bar
• Needle nose pliers
• Brake caliper compressor
• Penetrating lubricant
• Replacement suspension spindle

Steering Spindle Replacement

Before you begin working, park your car on level ground with the transmission in park. You will need to lift up your car with a floor jack and secure it using jack stands for safety, and remove the wheel. Never get under the vehicle unless the jack stands are in place. Remove the brake caliper and secure it out of the way using zip ties. Wear safety gloves and protective eyewear.

1. CV Axle Flange Nut Removal (If Applicable)

Use a pair of pliers or side cutters to remove the bearing hub nut cotter pin or a small punch to push out the lock tab. (Note: If air tools are not being used you will need to do this step with the car still on the ground to hold the wheel from spinning while removing the nut.) This nut fairly tight so you will need to use a breaker bar to loosen it and remove the nut and washer completely.

2. ABS Sensor Removal

The wheel speed sensor will need to be removed, either at the mount or at the electrical connector, you might notice fine metal particles over the magnetic end of the sensor, this should be cleaned off before reinstalling the sensor.

3. Parking Brake Cable Removal (Rear Only - If Applicable)

If you are doing this job on the rear of the car you must remove the emergency brake shoes. Locate and remove (release) the cable housing retainer clip, this step will vary by way of a multi fingered retainer that is released from the outside of the backing plate which is found mostly on American built vehicles. Grasp the emergency brake cable firmly and pull it outward from the backing plate. Pliers may be used to help in the removal.

4. Suspension and Steering Bolt Removal

While using a wrench to back up the swing arm nut, use a socket to remove the through bolt. Do the same for the forward swing arm bolts from the bearing housing knuckle and the trailing arm mounting bolt from the lower spindle mount. The steering tie rod will need to be removed if the front spindle is being removed as well.

5. Strut Clasp Bolt

Use a sharp object such as a scribe or sharpie to mark the location of the strut mounting bolts and spindle alignment so they can be reassembled in the same location, (This will preserve the wheel alignment).

Use a socket and wrench to loosen and remove the strut mounting bolts, leave the top bolt in without the nut. The spindle can become loose from the car so keep your hands on it.

6. Spindle Removal

After all mounting bolts have been removed, grasp the spindle and work it outward and away from the CV axle. The CV joint snout can get stuck in the bearing hub and may need to be pushed outward through the hub. Keep your hands on the spindle because it is heavy and will cause damage if you drop it.