Steering Gear: Service and Repair

Steering Gear

Special Tool(s):

Material:

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.

CAUTION: Do not allow the intermediate shaft to rotate while it is disconnected from the steering gear or damage to the clockspring can result. If there is evidence that the intermediate shaft has rotated, the clockspring must be removed and re-centered.

1. Turn the steering wheel to the straight-ahead position. Turn the ignition key to the locked position.
2. Raise and support the vehicle.

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

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

4. CAUTION: Do not rotate the steering wheel when the lower steering column shaft is disconnected, or damage to the air bag sliding contact will result.

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.).
^ Install a new pinch bolt.

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.
9. Install 2 new O-ring seals. Fill and leak check the power steering system.