Disassembly 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.

Remove the pitman shaft and the side cover. Refer to Steering Gear Pitman Shaft and Housing Cover Replacement - Off Vehicle (670 Gear) or Steering Gear Pitman Shaft and Housing Cover Replacement - Off Vehicle (700 Gear) .
Remove the pitman arm (3) from the steering gear (1).
Remove the pitman shaft boot (2).

Fig 1: Removing The Pitman Arm From Steering Gear (700 Gear)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the dust seal (1).

Fig 2: View Of Dust Seal & Retaining Ring (700 Gear)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the retaining ring using the J 4245 .

IMPORTANT: Use care not to score the steering gear housing bore when prying out the seals and the washers.

Fig 3: Using Screwdriver To Pry The Backup Washer And The Double Lip Seal (700 Gear)

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Use a screwdriver to pry the backup washer (3) and the double lip seal (2) from the steering gear housing (1).
Inspect the steering gear housing (1) for burrs.
Insert J 6278 through the hole in the top of the steering gear housing (1).

Fig 4: Inserting J 6278 Into Steering Gear Housing To Drive Out Needle Bearing (700 Gear)
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Drive out the needle bearing (2).