Removal Procedure

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.

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.

NOTE: 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.