Inspection of the Drag Link
Warning: All steering system components are critical for safe operation of the vehicle. Failure to maintain the steering system as specified may result in loss of steering control, which could lead to personal injury and property damage.
Have someone turn the steering wheel from left to right. Check for movement between the ball stud end at both the pitman arm and the steering arm. Also check if the ball stud nut is loose.
If the ball stud end is loose, replace the drag link. If the ball stud nut is loose, replace the nut and cotter key. See Group 46 of the vehicle Workshop Manual for drag link removal and installation instructions. See Group 00 in this manual for torque specifications.
Inspect the boot of the drag link at both the pitman arm and the steering arm end for cracks, splits, or other damage. Replace the boot as needed.
Grasp the drag link near the pitman arm end, then push and pull laterally to check for axial movement in the ball stud end. If it is loose, replace the drag link. If there is 1/8-inch (3-mm) movement or more, do not drive the vehicle until the drag link is replaced.