GM 26079915
Steering Gear

The first step to change the Rack And Pinion is to support and raise the vehicle before placing a drain pan underneath. The tire and wheel assembly needs removal before disconnecting the intermediate shaft from the Rack And Pinion stub shaft to prevent damage. Unbolt the intermediate Steering Shaft at its lower attachment to the Rack And Pinion stub shaft after positioning the Steering Shaft with its block tooth aligned at 12 o'clock and wheels facing forward while maintaining an ignition switch lock position. Disconnect the intermediate Steering Shaft from the Rack And Pinion stub shaft then remove both tie rod ends from the steering knuckles. The rear of the frame needs support from jackstands while frame bolts at the rear need removing but take care to maintain sufficient frame height to avoid damaging nearby engine components. After lowering the frame rear portion, technicians must eliminate the Rack And Pinion pressure line and return hose from the assembly and the magnasteer variable assist electrical connector if the vehicle has this system. The technicians should detach the Rack And Pinion's mounting hardware followed by extracting the steering unit through the left wheel opening. Sliding the new Rack And Pinion through the left wheel opening marks the beginning of installation which requires bolt and nut mounting followed by torque settings at 80 nm (59 ft. Lbs.). Check threads on Rack And Pinion pressure line and return hose then replace and lubricate o-ring seals if visible damage is detected. Secure Rack And Pinion lines to the assembly before you connect the pressure line and return line and magnasteer connector if needed. When the frame reaches its proper position install new rear frame bolts before taking out the jackstands. Install the pinch bolt when the Steering Shaft is fully in position now tighten the bolt to 47 nm (35 ft. Lbs.). The last stage involves tire and wheel reinstallation followed by drain pan removal and vehicle lowering. The Rack And Pinion system requires fluid replenishment and system bleeding before leak inspections and front-end alignment.

Reinstall the tire and wheel assembly, remove the drain pan, lower the vehicle, fill the power steering system with fluid, bleed the system, inspect for leaks, and perform a front-end alignment.