Installation Procedure

Fig 1: Rack & Pinion Gear Assembly, Boot & Inner Tie Rod Assembly

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Prior to installing the steering gear boot, apply grease to the rack and pinion inner tie rod (2) and the steering gear (1) and place the inner steering gear boot clamp loosely on the steering gear boot.
Install the steering gear boot (3) onto the rack and pinion inner tie rod (2).
Install the steering gear boot breather tube while aligning the it with the mark made during removal and the molded nipple of the steering gear boot.

IMPORTANT: The steering gear boot (3) must not be twisted, puckered, or out of shape in any way. If the steering gear boot (3) is not shaped properly, adjust it by hand before installing the steering gear boot clamps.

Move the steering gear boot onto the steering gear (1) until it is seated securely in the steering gear assembly groove.

Fig 2: Using J 22610 To Install Boot Clamp

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Crimp the new inner steering gear boot clamp (1) using pliers J 22610 . See Special Tools .

Fig 3: View Of Tie Rod End Clamp At Rack & Pinion Boot

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Install the new outer steering gear boot clamp (2) onto the steering gear boot (1).

Fig 4: View Of Inner Tie Rod & Hex Jam Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

IMPORTANT: Place the rack and pinion inner tie rod nut at the location mark made before removing.

Install the rack and pinion inner tie rod nut (2) to the rack and pinion inner tie rod (1).
Install the rack and pinion outer tie rod end. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement .
Tighten the rack and pinion inner tie rod nut tight against the rack and pinion outer tie rod end.
Adjust the front toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment - Steering Wheel Angle and/or Front Toe Adjustment .