GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

SA91100C Tie Rod Separator

Removal Procedure

    Notice: Secure the steering wheel utilizing a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:

       • The steering column
       • The intermediate shaft
       • The steering gear
    After disconnecting these components, do not move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow these procedures may cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in possible damage to the SIR coil.

  1. Turn the steering wheel to the straight ahead position and remove the key from the ignition.
  2. Secure the steering utilizing a strap to prevent rotation.
  3. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  4. Remove the front wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.

  5. Object Number: 851655  Size: SH
  6. Remove the steering gear to intermediate shaft pinch bolt and discard.
  7. Disconnect the intermediate shaft from the steering gear.

  8. Object Number: 854972  Size: SH
  9. Remove both steering gear outer tie rod to knuckle nuts and discard the nuts.

  10. Object Number: 854983  Size: SH

    Important: Do not attempt to separate the joint using a wedge type tool.

  11. Use the SA91100C to separate the outer tie rods from the steering knuckles.

  12. Object Number: 851710  Size: SH
  13. Remove the steering gear bolts.
  14. Carefully remove the steering gear from the frame and the vehicle through the LH wheel opening.

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the steering gear to the frame through the LH wheel opening.
  2. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 851710  Size: SH
  3. Install the steering gear bolts.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 110 N·m (81 lb ft).


    Object Number: 851655  Size: SH
  5. Connect the intermediate shaft to the steering gear.
  6. Install a new intermediate shaft pinch bolt.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 34 N·m (25 lb ft).


    Object Number: 854972  Size: SH
  8. Install the outer tie rods to the steering knuckles.
  9. Install new outer tie rod nuts.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 25 N·m (18 lb ft) plus 90 degrees.

  11. Install the front wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  12. Lower the vehicle.
  13. Remove the strap from the steering wheel.
  14. Adjust the toe if necessary. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment in Wheel Alignment.