Disassembly Procedure

Fig 1: Removing/Installing Plug Lock Nut, Adjuster Plug, Adjuster Spring & Rack Bearing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

To remove the rack and pinion steering assembly, refer to Rack and Pinion Boot Replacement - Off Vehicle .
Remove the adjuster plug lock nut (5) from the adjuster plug (4).
Remove the adjuster plug (4) from the gear assembly (1).
Remove the adjuster spring (3) and the rack bearing (2).

Fig 2: Removing Hex Lock Nut From Lower End Of Pinion & Valve Assembly

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the retaining ring (1) from the valve bore of the rack and pinion gear assembly (2).
Remove the dust cover (4) from the bottom of the rack and pinion gear assembly (2).

IMPORTANT: The stub shaft must be held to prevent damage to the pinion teeth.

Remove the hex lock nut (3) from the lower end of the pinion and valve assembly while holding the stub shaft with a 14 mm crowfoot wrench.

Fig 3: Removing Stub Shaft Bearing Annulus & Stub Shaft Seal

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: Do not hammer or pound on pinion or valve assembly. This will cause damage or loosen the drive pin.
When performing the following procedure, do not remove the pinion and valve assembly from the rack and pinion gear assembly (5).

Press the pinion and valve assembly only far enough to allow removal of the stub shaft bearing annulus (3) and the stub shaft seal (2).
Using an arbor press (1), press on the threaded end of the pinion until removal of the following items is possible:
1. The stub shaft (4)
2. The stub shaft seal (2)
3. The stub shaft bearing annulus assembly (3)