Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sierra, 2003 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2003 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2003 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. 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 JACKING AND LIFTING .
Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION .
Remove the drain plug (2) and drain the fluid from the differential housing.
Remove the bolts (3) retaining the steering gear protection shield.

Fig 1: Drain Plug & Bolts
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the electrical connectors from the control module (2).

Fig 2: Control Module
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the electrical connector (1) from the rear position sensor.
Remove the outer tie rod ends from the steering knuckle. Refer to Rear Wheel Steering Tie Rod End Replacement - Outer .

Fig 3: Electrical Connector
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Disconnect the differential vent hose (1) from the vent tube (2).

Fig 4: Differential Vent Hose & Vent Tube
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the bolts retaining the steering gear actuator and cover (2) to the differential (1).
Remove the steering gear actuator and cover from the vehicle.

Fig 5: Steering Gear Actuator & Differential
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.