Disassembly Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Sonoma, 2003 GMC Jimmy, 2003 Chevrolet S10 Pickup, and 2003 Chevrolet Blazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove the pitman shaft and the side cover. Refer to STEERING GEAR PITMAN SHAFT AND HOUSING COVER REPLACEMENT - OFF VEHICLE (700 GEAR) .
Remove the pitman arm (3) from the steering gear (1).
Remove the pitman shaft boot (2).
Remove the dust seal (1).
Remove the retaining ring using the J 4245 .

Fig 1: Dust Seal
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Important: Use care not to score the steering gear housing bore when prying out the seals and the washers.
Use a screwdriver to pry the backup washer (3) and the double lip seal (2) from the steering gear housing (1).
Inspect the steering gear housing (1) for burrs.

Fig 2: Removing Backup Washer & Double Lip Seal From Steering Gear Housing
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Insert J 6278 through the hole in the top of the steering gear housing (1).
Drive out the needle bearing (2).

Fig 3: Removing Needle Bearing From Steering Gear Housing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.