Steering Gear Replacement

Fig 1: Identifying Steering Gear

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Callout	Component Name
CAUTION: With wheels of the vehicle facing straight ahead, secure the steering wheel utilizing steering column anti-rotation pin, steering column lock, or 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(s) The steering gear After disconnecting these components, do not rotate the steering wheel or move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow this procedure may cause the SIR coil assembly to become un-centered and cause possible damage to the SIR coil. If you think the SIR coil has became un-centered, refer to your specific SIR coil's centering procedure to re-center SIR Coil. Preliminary Procedure With the front wheels of the vehicle in the straight ahead position, lock the steering column. Place drain pans under the vehicle. Remove as much power steering fluid from the power steering fluid reservoir as possible. Remove the front tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
1	Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Nut (Qty: 2) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten: 30 N.m (22 lb ft) 115 degrees
2	Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod End (Qty: 2) Procedure: Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement .
3	Steering Gear Inlet and Outlet Hose Fitting (Qty: 2) Tighten: 32 N.m (24 lb ft)
4	Steering Gear Bolt (Qty: 2) Tighten: 60 N.m (44 lb ft)
5	Steering Gear Procedure Disconnect the intermediate steering shaft from the steering gear. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement . Fill and bleed the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding . Clean any excess power steering fluid from the vehicle. Measure and adjust the front toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment - Steering Wheel Angle and/or Front Toe Adjustment .