Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2003 GMC Yukon XL, 2003 GMC Yukon, 2003 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2003 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: When lifting the vehicle do not allow the jack to touch the rear steering gear. If the jack touches the rear steering gear you may damage the gear or the rack and pinion boots. If the boots are damaged replace the rack and pinion boot.

Raise the vehicle. Refer to LIFTING AND JACKING THE VEHICLE in General Information.
Remove the outer tie rod from the vehicle. Refer to REAR WHEEL STEERING TIE ROD END REPLACEMENT - Outer .
Remove the tie rod jam nut (2) from the inner tie rod.

Fig 1: Removing Tie Rod Jam Nut From Inner Tie Rod
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the rack and pinion boot protector (1) from the rack and pinion boot (2), if equipped.

Fig 2: Removing Rack/Pinion Boot Protector From Rack/Pinion Boot
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the outer clamp (1) retaining the boot (2) to the steering gear.

Fig 3: Removing Outer Clamp & Retaining The Boot
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the inner clamp (1) retaining the boot to the steering gear.
Important: Check the boot for damage by using a light and flexing the boot to inspect for wear. If the boot is damaged replace the steering gear actuator. Refer to Steering Gear Actuator and Cover Replacement .
Remove the boot from the steering gear.

Fig 4: Removing Boot From Steering Gear
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.