Steering Gear Replacement (Rack & Pinion)

Fig 1: View Of Power Steering Gear Components

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Callout	Component Name
Preliminary Procedures Remove the front tire/wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation . Disconnect the steering shaft coupling from the steering gear. Refer to Steering Shaft Coupling Replacement .
1	Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Nut (Qty: 2) NOTE: Do not attempt to disconnect a steering linkage joint by driving a wedge between the joint and the attached part. Seal damage may result which will cause premature failure of the joint. NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice . Tighten: 60 N.m (44 lb ft)
2	Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod (Qty: 2) Procedure: Use puller J 24319-B to separate the steering linkage outer tie rods from the steering knuckles. See Special Tools .
3	Power Steering Gear Inlet Hose Retaining Plate Bolt Procedure Remove as much power steering fluid from the power steering fluid reservoir as possible. Place drain pans under the vehicle as needed. Tighten: 12 N.m (106 lb in)
4	Power Steering Gear Inlet/Outlet Hose (Qty: 2) NOTE: Refer to Power Steering Hose Disconnected Notice . Procedure: Pull the power steering gear inlet/outlet hoses out of the steering gear. Tip: Keep the area around the power steering gear inlet/outlet hoses and the steering gear openings clean.
5	Left Side Steering Gear Bolt (Qty: 2) Tighten: 200 N.m (148 lb ft)
6	Right Side Steering Gear Bolt (Qty: 2) Tighten: 100 N.m (74 lb ft)
7	Steering Gear Procedure Use remover/installer J 44586 to replace the steering gear seals if needed. See Special Tools . Fill and bleed the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding . Adjust the front toe. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment . Special Tools J 24319-B Steering Linkage and Tie Rod Puller. See Special Tools . J 44586 Power Steering Gear Oil Seal Remover/Installer. See Special Tools .