Removal (Escape)
- Disconnect negative battery cable. Remove rear transaxle insulator. On models equipped with A/T, remove bolts and rear transaxle insulator bracket. On all models, remove power steering pressure and return line bracket bolts. Remove front wheels. On models equipped with M/T, remove bolts and rear transaxle insulator bracket.
- On all models, remove cotter pin and tie rod end nut. Using Tie Rod End Separator, separate tie rod end from knuckle. Record number of turns required to remove tie rod end. Remove tie rod ends and jam nuts.
- Slide boot up. Remove steering gear coupling pinch bolt. Drain excess power steering fluid into a suitable drain pan. Disconnect power steering pressure and return lines. Lower vehicle. Remove steering shaft. Remove steering shaft boot.
- Remove steering gear mounting bolts. Raise and support vehicle. With mounting bolts removed, slide gear forward to separate steering coupling from steering gear shaft. Remove steering gear.