GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

    • J 6278 Pitman Shaft Bearing Remover and Installer
    • J 4245 Internal Snap Ring Pliers

Disassembly Procedure


    Object Number: 740396  Size: SH
  1. Remove the Pitman shaft and the side cover. Refer to Steering Gear Pitman Shaft and Housing Cover Replacement - Off Vehicle .
  2. Remove the Pitman arm (3) from the steering gear (1).
  3. Remove the Pitman shaft boot (2).

  4. Object Number: 322069  Size: SH
  5. Remove the dust seal (1).
  6. Remove the retaining ring using the J 4245 .

  7. Object Number: 322075  Size: SH

    Important: Use care not to score the steering gear housing bore when prying out the seals and the washers.

  8. Use a screwdriver to pry the backup washer (3) and the double lip seal (2) from the steering gear housing (1).
  9. Inspect the steering gear housing (1) for burrs.

  10. Object Number: 322079  Size: SH
  11. Insert J 6278 through the hole in the top of the steering gear housing (1).
  12. Drive out the needle bearing (2).

Assembly Procedure


    Object Number: 322096  Size: SH
  1. Install the needle bearing (2) to the steering gear housing (1) using the J 6278 .

  2. Object Number: 322084  Size: SH
  3. Coat the double lip seal (2) and the washer (3) with grease.
  4. Install the double lip seal (2).
  5. Install the backup washer (3).

  6. Object Number: 322069  Size: SH
  7. Install the retaining ring using the J 4245 .
  8. Important: Do not install the lock washer and nut until complete installation of the Pitman arm and its components have been installed. Do not adjust the Pitman shaft until all components have been installed on the steering gear housing.

  9. Install the Pitman shaft and the side cover. Refer to Steering Gear Pitman Shaft and Housing Cover Replacement - Off Vehicle .
  10. Install the dust seal (1).

  11. Object Number: 740397  Size: SH
  12. Install the Pitman shaft boot (2).
  13. Install the Pitman arm (3) to the steering gear (1).
  14. Install the lock washer (4).
  15. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  16. Install the nut (5).
  17. Tighten
    Tighten the Pitman arm nut to 250 N·m (184 lb ft).

  18. Refer to Steering Gear Pitman Shaft Over-Center Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle to adjust the Pitman shaft.