GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 29107-A Pitman Arm Puller

  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  2. Remove the 4 bolts securing the engine skid plate to the vehicle.
  3. Remove the engine skid plate.
  4. Remove the cotter pin from the center link.
  5. Remove the castle nut from the center link.
  6. Place match marks on the steering gear sector shaft and the pitman arm.

  7. Object Number: 349710  Size: SH
  8. Use the J 29107-A in order to separate the pitman arm (2) from the center link (1).
  9. Remove the following fasteners from the steering gear sector shaft:
  10. • The sector shaft nut
    • The washer
  11. Remove the pitman arm from the steering gear.

Installation Procedure

  1. Align the matchmarks on the pitman arm and the steering gear sector shaft in order to install the pitman arm to the steering gear sector shaft.
  2. 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.

  3. Secure the pitman arm to the steering gear sector shaft with the sector shaft nut.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the sector shaft nut to 130 N·m (95 lb ft).

  5. Secure the pitman arm to the center link with the castle nut.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the center link-to-pitman arm castle nut to 55 N·m (40 lb ft).

  7. Install the cotter pin to the center link.
  8. Bend the end of the pin following the installation.

  9. Secure the engine skid plate to the vehicle with the 4 bolts (if equipped).
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the skid plate bolts to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).

  11. Lower the vehicle.