GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

SA9164C Clamp Crimper

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the power steering gear. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement .
  2. Loosen the outer tie rod jam nut.
  3. Remove the outer tie rod from the inner tie rod. Count the number of turns during removal for installation.
  4. Remove the spring from the boot, outer end.
  5. Cut and remove the crimp clamp, inner end. Discard the clamp.
  6. Important: After removing the boot, inspect the inner tie rod for evidence of corrosion or contamination. If none is evident, continue with the repair. If corrosion or contamination is evident, replace the steering gear.

  7. Unseat the boot from the steering gear and remove.

  8. Object Number: 925777  Size: SH
  9. Clean the inner tie rod and boot contact area of grease and debris.

Installation Procedure

    Important: The inner tie rod must be free of debris and moisture. The boot sealing areas must be clean and dry.

  1. Apply approximately 3/4 of the supplied grease packet into the small end of the boot cavity. Apply the remainder of the grease on the shaft where the small end of the boot meets the shaft.

  2. Object Number: 925777  Size: SH

    Important: Ensure the large end of the boot is firmly seated in the gear housing groove.

  3. Install the boot with the large clamp loosely attached, not crimped.

  4. Object Number: 862226  Size: SH
  5. Using the SA9164C , crimp the large clamp.
  6. Important: Ensure the small end of the boot is firmly seated in the inner tie rod end groove.

  7. Install the spring clamp to the small end of the boot.

  8. Object Number: 927966  Size: SH
  9. Install the jam nut approximately 174 mm (6.85 in) from the boot clamp.
  10. Install the outer tie rod to the inner tie rod.
  11. Tighten the outer tie rod jam nut.
  12. Install the power steering gear. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement .
  13. Check the front wheel alignment and align, as necessary. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement .