Removal Procedure

NOTE:

After removing the steering gear boot, inspect the steering linkage inner tie rod for evidence of corrosion or contamination. If none is evident, continue with the repair. If corrosion or contamination is evident, replace the steering gear.

Remove the steering gear boot. Refer to Steering Gear Boot Replacement (Without HP2) , Steering Gear Boot Replacement (HP2) .

Fig 1: Inner Tie Rod Housing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

CAUTION:

Do not change the steering gear preload adjustment before moving the inner tie rod from the steering gear. Changing the steering gear preload adjustment before moving the inner tie rod could result in damage to the pinion and the steering gear.

CAUTION:

The pipe wrench must be placed at the valve end of the steering gear and positioned up against the inner tie rod housing. Placing the pipe wrench in any other location will cause damage to the steering gear.

Place a pipe wrench on the flats on the steering gear rack (1) next to the steering linkage inner tie rod (2).
Place a wrench on the flats of the steering linkage inner tie rod (2).
Rotate the steering linkage inner tie rod (2) counterclockwise, while holding the steering gear rack stationary, until the steering linkage inner tie rod separates from the steering gear rack (1).