Steering Gear: Service and Repair

Steering Gear

Removal and Installation

CAUTION: When repairing the power steering system, care should be taken to prevent the entry of contaminants or premature failure of the power steering components can result.

1. Place the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position and turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
2. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.

3. NOTE: Use the hex holding feature to prevent the tie-rod end stud from turning.

Remove the 2 nuts and disconnect the tie-rod ends from the wheel knuckles.
^ To install, tighten to 80 Nm (59 ft. lbs.).

4. Remove the steering column coupling-to-steering gear bolt and disconnect the coupling from the steering gear.
^ To install, tighten to 25 Nm (18 ft. lbs.).

5. NOTE: The O-ring seals must be replaced anytime the power steering lines are disconnected from the steering gear.

Remove the power steering line clamp plate bolt and disconnect the power steering pressure and return lines.
^ Allow the fluid to drain into a suitable container.
^ Discard the O-ring seals.
^ To install, tighten to 23 Nm (17 ft. lbs.).

6. Remove the 2 pressure line bracket-to-crossmember bolts and position the pressure line aside.
^ To install, tighten to 9 Nm (80 inch lbs.).

7. Remove the 2 bolts and the steering gear.
^ To install, tighten to 115 Nm (85 ft. lbs.).

8. To install, reverse the removal procedure.
^ Install 2 new O-ring seals.
^ Fill the power steering system.