GM 15225591
Tie Rod Boot

Before installing a new steering gear boot it's necessary to detach the Rack And Pinion outer Tie Rod End using keystone clamp pliers (J 22610). Two steps must be completed: first remove and dispose of the Rack And Pinion inner tie rod nut then remove the outer steering gear boot clamp. The vehicle requires a boot clamp removal procedure where users should cut and discard the clamp positioned within the steering gear. Critical to proceed with replacement only if the inner tie rod shows no indications of contamination or corrosion during inspection. The work should continue following a clean inspection unless evidence of contamination is present which requires steering gear replacement. The technician should first unmount the steering gear boot from the steering gear and afterward connect a new inner steering gear boot clamp to its surrounding area. Use grease from the steering gear boot service kit in specified locations after cleaning the steering gear and Rack And Pinion inner tie rod of all contaminants. A proper fit of the steering gear boot should exist within the steering gear groove. Attach the steering gear boot to the steering gear before using the keystone clamp pliers (J 22610) to crimp the internal boot clamp. Following this, install the external boot clamp. You must install a Rack And Pinion inner tie rod nut alongside a Rack And Pinion outer Tie Rod End. Adjustment of the front toe should be finalized in the process.

You must first lift support the vehicle before starting Rack And Pinion boot replacement work. Start your repair by removing both front wheel and outer Tie Rod End from the vehicle. People must eliminate both the jam nut which connects the inner to outer tie rod and then strip away the clamp within the boot spring. Cut the inner steering gear boot clamp using cutters before you remove it and throw it away. Extract the steering gear boot from its position on the steering gear by pulling it away from the inner tie rod then remove it through that path. Check both the steering gear's sealing surfaces and its threaded shaft and inside tie rod section for debris and clean all areas. To assemble the steering gear boot you must position a new clamp on the inner part of the boot and apply service kit grease to specific locations until the boot settles into the steering gear's groove. Fit the boot onto the inner tie rod and mount it onto the steering gear before using the j 22610 keystone clamp pliers (J 22610) to compress the inner boot clamp on the steering gear housing. Position the small spring clamp at the outer section of the inner Tie Rod End before tightening the new outer to inner tie rod jam nut and reinstalling the outer Tie Rod End. Installation of the wheel follows alongside toe setting completion.

Remove and dispose of the rack and pinion inner tie rod nut.

Raise and support the vehicle, then remove the tire assembly.

Place it on the steering gear boot, ensuring the steering gear and the rack and pinion inner tie rod are clean and free of debris.

Unseat the boot from the steering gear and clean the inner tie rod and boot contact area of grease and debris.

Check the front wheel alignment and align as necessary.

Detach the steering gear boot clamp from the steering gear boot, cut, remove, and discard the clamp.

Keystone Clamp Pliers (J 22610).

Install the steering gear boot onto the steering gear and ensure it seats properly in the groove.

Ensure the steering gear and the rack and pinion inner tie rod are clean and free of debris.

Detach the outer tie rod end and remove the outer to inner tie rod jam nut, discarding it.