GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 24319-B Puller


    Object Number: 254765  Size: SH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle with a suspension contact hoist. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove both front tires and wheels.
  3. Caution: Failure to disconnect the intermediate shaft from the rack and pinion stub shaft can result in damage to the steering gear and/or intermediate shaft. This damage can cause loss of steering control which could result in personal injury.

    Notice: The wheels of the vehicle must be straight ahead and the steering column in the LOCK position before disconnecting the steering column or intermediate shaft from the steering gear. Failure to do so will cause the coil assembly in the steering column to become uncentered which will cause damage to the coil assembly.

  4. Remove the intermediate shaft lower connection.
  5. Use the J 24319-B in order to remove the tie rod ends from the steering knuckles.
  6. Remove the power steering gear outlet and inlet hoses from the steering gear. Refer to Power Steering Hoses Replacement .
  7. Remove the steering gear mounting bolts.
  8. Notice: Do not lower the rear of the frame too far as damage to the engine components nearest to the cowl may result.

  9. Remove the steering gear through the wheel opening.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the steering gear through the wheel opening.
  2. Raise the rear of the frame.
  3. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  4. Install the frame bolts. Refer to Frame in Body Front End.
  5. Tighten
    Tighten the frame bolts to 103 N·m (76 lb ft).

  6. Remove the stands.

  7. Object Number: 254765  Size: SH
  8. Install the following components:
  9. • The 5 steering gear mounting bolts
    • The 2 washers

    Tighten

    1. Tighten the bolts in the sequence shown in the illustration.
    2. Tighten the bolts to 68 N·m (50 lb ft). Use Loctite® Tread Locking Kit No. 105264, or the equivalent.
  10. Install the power steering gear outlet and inlet hoses. Refer to Power Steering Hoses Replacement .
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the hose connections to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).

  12. Install the retainer.
  13. Connect the tie rod ends to the steering knuckles.
  14. Tighten
    Tighten the tie rod end nuts to 47 N·m (35 lb ft).

  15. Install the cotter pin.
  16. Tighten
    Tighten the nut up to an additional 1/6 turn, or to a maximum of 70 N·m (52 lb ft) in order to align the cotter pin slot. Do not back off the nut for the cotter pin insertion.

  17. Install the intermediate steering shaft pinch bolt.
  18. Tighten
    Tighten the intermediate steering shaft pinch bolt to 47 N·m (35 lb ft).

  19. Install the tires and wheels.
  20. Tighten
    Tighten the wheel nuts to 140 N·m (100 lb ft).

  21. Lower the vehicle.
  22. Fill the system.
  23. Bleed the system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .
  24. Inspect the system for leaks.