Removal Procedure

NOTE: Secure the steering wheel utilizing a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:

The steering column
The intermediate shaft
The steering gear

After disconnecting these components, do not move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow these procedures may cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in possible damage to the SIR coil.

Turn the steering wheel to the straight ahead position and lock it in place.
Remove the front tire/wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .

Fig 1: View Of Intermediate Shaft-To-Steering Gear Pinch Bolt

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the intermediate steering shaft bolt at the steering gear and discard it.
Disconnect the intermediate steering shaft from the steering gear.

Fig 2: View Of Tie Rod End To Steering Knuckle

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove both rack and pinion outer tie rod end nuts and discard them.

Fig 3: Separating Outer Tie Rod End From Steering Knuckle

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to separate the rack and pinion outer tie rod ends using a wedge type tool.

Use puller J 24319-B to separate the rack and pinion outer tie rod ends from the steering knuckles.

Fig 4: View Of Steering Gear Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the steering gear bolts.
Remove the transmission rear mount. Refer to Transmission Rear Mount Replacement .
Remove the steering gear from the vehicle through the left wheelhouse opening.