Removal Procedure
- The steering column
- The intermediate shaft
- The steering gear
- Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
- Remove the front tires. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
- Remove both outer tie rod to steering knuckle nuts. Discard the nuts.
- Using the J 24319-B , separate the tie rods from the steering knuckles.
- Rotate the intermediate steering shaft in order to gain access to the intermediate shaft pinch bolt.
- Remove the intermediate to steering gear pinch bolt. Discard the bolt.
- Disconnect the intermediate shaft from the steering gear.
- Disconnect the stabilizer links from the stabilizer bar. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement .
- Remove the steering gear to cradle mounting bolts.
- Remove the steering gear through the right side of the vehicle.
- With heat shield equipped steering gears, remove the heat shield. Save for installation.
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:
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.
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.
NOTE:
Do not free the ball stud by using a pickle fork or a wedge-type tool. Damage to the seal or bushing may result.
IMPORTANT:
Hold the ball stud to prevent turning during removal of the nut.