OEM 2007 Cadillac STS Rack And Pinion

2007 Cadillac STS Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to Replace the Front Rack and Pinion Steering Gear on 2007 Cadillac STS?

  A: Installation of the steering column anti-rotation pin (J 42640) to the steering column marks the first step to power Rack And Pinion replacement. Apply supports to the vehicle while you remove front wheels and tires and dismount the front air deflector. Before disconnecting the intermediate shaft from the power Rack And Pinion always set the steering column to lock position and keep the wheels facing directly forward to avoid equipment damage. To begin repairs start by unplugging the variable effort steering harness connector before disconnecting the intermediate shaft both from the power Rack And Pinion and its lower pinch bolt. Insert the steering linkage and tie rod puller (J 24319-B) tool through the outer tie rod retaining nuts to separate the rod from the steering knuckles. Place a drain pan under the vehicle and remove the power Rack And Pinion retaining bolt from the power steering hoses before disconnecting each hose from the gear assembly. On vehicles with the 4.6l (LH2) engine users should disconnect the left Brake Line from the brake hose then use a plug to seal the Brake Line before positioning it to the side. During awd work the bottom of the front differential housing needs support from a suitable jack while loose right engine mount nuts let the differential housing rise above the Rack And Pinion bolt. Professional installation requires removal of power Rack And Pinion mounting bolts along with left rearward lower Control Arm to frame mounting bolt and nut when using the 4.6l (LH2) engine. Put the power Rack And Pinion through the left wheel opening to remove it. The power Rack And Pinion installation starts with steering the gear through the left wheel opening then reinstalling the left lower Control Arm frame mount bolt (if applicable) before torquing to 180 n.m (134 lb ft). To access the awd differential housing you need to lower it while tightening the right lower engine mount to 80 n.m (59 lb ft). Also remove the support at the bottom of the differential housing. When using the 4.6l (LH2) engine you should connect the left Brake Line to the brake hose then tighten it to 27 n.m (20 lb in). Reinstall power steering hoses onto the power Rack And Pinion while securing the retaining bolt at 23 n.m (17 lb ft torque). First drain the pan while installing the steering knuckles' outer tie rod and tightening its nuts to 70 n.m (52 lb ft). Then connect the variable effort steering harness and power Rack And Pinion with the intermediate shaft. Reinstall the intermediate shaft lower pinch bolt with a torque of 50 n.m (37 lb ft). Afterward install the wheels and tires then lower the vehicle. Finally remove the j 42640 from the steering column before bleeding the power steering system and adjusting the front toe.