Assembly Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 GMC Sierra, 2004 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2004 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2004 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis Silverado. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Install the new boot clamp (1) onto the rack and pinion boot (3).

Fig 1: View Of Boot Clamp And Rack & Pinion Boot
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Prior to rack and pinion boot installation, apply grease to the inner tie rod assembly (2) and the rack and pinion gear assembly (1).

Fig 2: Rack & Pinion Gear Assembly, Boot & Inner Tie Rod Assembly
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the rack and pinion boot (3) onto the inner tie rod assembly (2).
If present, install the breather tube while aligning the breather tube with the mark made during removal and the molded nipple of the rack and pinion boot.

IMPORTANT: The rack and pinion boot (3) must not be twisted, puckered or out of shape in any way. If the rack and pinion boot (3) is not shaped properly, adjust the rack and pinion boot (3) by hand before installing the boot clamp.

Install the rack and pinion boot onto the gear assembly (1) until the rack and pinion boot (3) is seated in the gear assembly groove.
Install the boot clamp (1) on the rack and pinion boot (2) with J 22610.

Fig 3: Using J 22610 To Install Boot Clamp
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Crimp the boot clamp (1).
Pinch the pliers together on the rack and pinion boot (2) in order to install the tie rod end clamp.
Install the tie rod end clamp (2) onto the rack and pinion boot (1).

Fig 4: View Of Tie Rod End Clamp At Rack & Pinion Boot
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the hexagon jam nut (2) to the inner tie rod assembly (1).

Fig 5: View Of Inner Tie Rod & Hex Jam Nut
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
To assemble the outer tie rod assembly. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement .