GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 22610 Keystone Clamp Pliers

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the rack and pinion outer tie rod ends. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement .
  2. Remove the steering gear. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement .
  3. Completely remove the steering gear inner tie rod nuts.

  4. Object Number: 1816259  Size: SH
  5. Remove the steering gear boot clamp (1) from the steering gear boot.

  6. Object Number: 1816263  Size: SH
  7. Cut, remove, and discard the steering gear boot clamp (1).

  8. Object Number: 1816264  Size: SH

    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.

  9. Remove the steering gear boot.

  10. Object Number: 925777  Size: SH
  11. Clean the steering gear inner tie rod and steering gear boot contact areas of any grease and debris.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 925777  Size: SH
  1. Apply approximately 3/4 of the supplied grease packet into the small end of the steering gear boot cavity. Apply the remainder of the grease on the shaft where the small end of the steering gear boot meets the shaft.

  2. Object Number: 1816264  Size: SH

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

  3. Install the steering gear boot with the large clamp loosely attached but not crimped.

  4. Object Number: 862226  Size: SH
  5. Use pliers J 22610 to crimp the steering gear boot clamp.
  6. Important: Ensure the small end of the steering gear boot is firmly seated in the steering gear inner tie rod end groove.


    Object Number: 1816259  Size: SH
  7. Install the steering gear boot clamp (1).

  8. Object Number: 927966  Size: SH
  9. Install the steering gear inner tie rod nuts approximately 174 mm (6.85 in) from the steering gear boot clamp.
  10. Install the steering gear. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement .
  11. Install the rack and pinion outer tie rod ends. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement .
  12. Fill and bleed the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .
  13. Check the front wheel alignment and adjust as necessary. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement .