GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Steering Gear Pitman Shaft Over-Center Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle Saginaw - 710 Model

Inspect the worm shaft bearing preload adjustment before adjusting the Pitman over-center preload. Adjust the worm shaft bearing preload, if necessary. Refer to Steering Gear Adjustments .

Tools Required

J 7754-01 Torque Wrench

  1. Turn the over-center adjusting screw all the way out clockwise.
  2. Turn the screw 1/2 turn clockwise.


    Object Number: 218934  Size: SH
  3. Place the J 7754-01 with a 3/4- inch twelve point socket (4) onto the stub shaft (3).

  4. Object Number: 218914  Size: MH
  5. Rotate the stub shaft from one stop to the other stop.
  6. Count the turns.

    Turn the stub shaft back to the center.

  7. Use the following steps in order to measure the over-center preload:
  8. 4.1. Rotate the J 7754-01 through a 180 degree arc on each side of the center.
    4.2. Make a note of the highest readings. The readings must be 0.8-1.9 N·m (7-17 lb in).
  9. Turn the over-center adjusting screw counter-clockwise until the J 7754-01 shows a reading of 0.7-1.1 N·m (6-10 lb in) higher than the reading in step 4.
  10. The total reading must not exceed 3 N·m (27 lb in).

    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.

  11. Adjust the lock nut (1).
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the lock nut to 89 N·m (66 lb ft) while holding the adjusting screw.

  13. Inspect the adjustment. Adjust again, if necessary.
  14. Connect the power steering hoses. Follow the tag locations.
  15. Tighten
    Tighten the threaded power steering hoses to 38 N·m (28 lb ft).


    Object Number: 218912  Size: MH
  16. Connect the cardan joint.
  17. Install and adjust the cardan joint pinch bolt. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement in Steering Wheel and Column.
  18. Connect the Pitman arm (7). Refer to Pitman Arm Replacement in Steering Linkage.
  19. Bleed the system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .