Thrust Bearing Preload Adjustment

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.

NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.

Turn the adjuster nut assembly clockwise using J 42882 until the adjuster nut assembly and the thrust bearing support are firmly bottomed in the steering gear housing.
Tighten: Adjust the adjuster nut assembly to 29.5 N.m (22 lb ft).

Fig 1: View Of Adjuster Nut Assembly, Steering Gear Housing & J 42882
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Place an index mark (1) on the steering gear housing even with one of the holes (2) in the adjuster nut assembly.

Fig 2: Place An Index Mark On The Steering Gear Housing
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Measure back counterclockwise 13 mm (.5 inch).

Fig 3: Measuring Back Counterclockwise 13 mm (.5 inch)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Place a second mark on the steering gear housing.
Using J 42882 and a torque wrench, turn adjuster nut assembly counterclockwise 22-32 degrees to align the hole in the adjuster nut assembly with the second mark on the steering gear housing.

Fig 4: Turning Adjuster Nut Assembly Counterclockwise 22-32 Degrees To Align The Hole In The Adjuster Nut Assembly With The Second Mark On The Steering Gear Housing
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Install the lock nut.
Hold the adjuster nut assembly in position to maintain alignment of the marks.
Tighten the lock nut using J 42882 , J 43435 and a torque wrench.
Tighten: Tighten the lock nut to 109 N.m (80 lb ft).
Adjust the pitman shaft over center preload. Refer to Pitman Shaft Over-Center Preload Adjustment - Off Vehicle .