OEM 2004 Cadillac XLR Rack And Pinion

2004 Cadillac XLR Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to Replace the Front Rack and Pinion Steering Gear on 2004 Cadillac XLR?

  A: The Rack And Pinion replacement process starts by removing the brake pressure modulator valve bracket followed by car lifting and tire wheel removal. Start replacement by disconnecting the steering knuckles from the tie rod ends and then removing the lower shock mounting bolts. Separate the Rack And Pinion's intermediate shaft from the Rack And Pinion before you take out the stabilizer shaft. The Rack And Pinion pressure hose and Rack And Pinion return hose need separation from the Rack And Pinion followed by complete removal of the brake pipes from the crossmember. Loosen the four crossmember mounting nuts 10 mm (0.394 inch) using hand tools only without removing them. Also remove the Rack And Pinion mounting bolts and nuts. Route the Rack And Pinion outside through the left wheelhouse opening of the vehicle. Keep your Rack And Pinion facing left to access the wheelhouse opening. Position the gear inside the vehicle through this point and tighten the mounting bolts 100 nm (74 ft. Lbs.) while you install the nuts. Tighten all mounting nuts securing the crossmember with hand tools to 110 nm (81 ft. Lbs.) before connecting brake pipes back to the crossmember. First install Rack And Pinion pressure and return hoses to the Rack And Pinion before securing the stabilizer shaft to the crossmember. After applying the Rack And Pinion to the intermediate shaft you must install the lower shock mounting bolts and reattach the tie rod ends to steering knuckles before replacing tires and wheels. Place the vehicle in its normal position and attach the brake pressure modulator valve (BPMV) bracket. The process ends by draining fluid from the Rack And Pinion system and by zeroing out the front wheel toe alignment.