Steering Gear Replacement

Fig 1: Steering Gear & Components

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

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 steering wheel in the straight ahead position, LOCK the steering column. Disconnect the intermediate steering shaft from the steering gear. Refer to Steering Column Replacement . Disconnect the steering column dash seal from the dash panel. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Disconnect the outer tie rods from the steering knuckles. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement . Partially lower the rear of the drivetrain and front suspension frame in order to gain clearance for the steering gear. Refer to Drivetrain and Front Suspension Frame Replacement .
1	Steering Gear Nut (Qty: 2) Procedure During installation, hold the steering gear nuts while tightening the steering gear bolts.
2	Steering Gear Washer (Qty: 2)
3	Steering Gear Bolt (Qty: 2) WARNING: This component is equipped with torque-to-yield fasteners. Install a NEW torque-to-yield fastener when installing this component. Failure to replace the torque-to-yield fastener could cause bodily injury and damage to the vehicle or component. CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution Procedure Remove the 2 steering gear bolts. Discard the bolts. Install 2 NEW steering gear bolts. Hold the steering gear nuts while tightening the steering gear bolts. Use the EN-45059 meter in order to tighten the steering gear bolts to the specification. Tighten 100 N.m (74 lb ft) 97 degrees Special Tools EN-45059 Angle Meter For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools .
4	Steering Gear Procedure Carefully remove the steering gear through the left front wheel opening. Transfer parts if necessary. After the installation is complete, measure and adjust the front toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment - Steering Wheel Angle and/or Front Toe Adjustment .