Assembly 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.

Important: Install a new O-ring seal each time the thrust support assembly is removed from the steering gear.

Lubricate the new O-ring seal (3).
Install the new O-ring seal (3) on the thrust support assembly (2).
Install the thrust support assembly (2).

Fig 1: Installing Thrust Support Assembly & O-Ring Seal To Steering Gear Housing
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Connect the adjuster nut assembly (2) to the steering gear housing (1) using J 42882 .
Install the coupling shield retainer and the lock nut (1) to the adjuster nut assembly.
Refer to WORM THRUST BEARING PRELOAD ADJUSTMENT - OFF VEHICLE (700 GEAR) to adjust the thrust bearing preload.

Fig 2: Connecting Adjuster Nut Assembly To Steering Gear Housing
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Hold the adjuster nut assembly in position to maintain alignment of the marks.
NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE in Cautions and Notices.
Tighten the coupling shield retainer and the lock nut using J 43435 and a torque wrench.
Tighten

Tighten the retainer and the lock nut to 109 N.m (80 lb ft).

Fig 3: Tightening Coupling Shield Retainer & Lock Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.