Steering Gear: Removal

NOTE: Steering fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure may result in major service expense. New parts must be installed with the same part numbers or equivalent part, if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.

NOTE: While repairing the power steering system, care should be taken to prevent the entry of foreign material or failure of the power steering components may result.

Using a suitable holding device, hold the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position.

Fig 1: Holding Steering Wheel In Straight-Ahead Position Using Suitable Holding Device
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the stabilizer bar. For additional information, refer to FRONT SUSPENSION .

NOTE: Use the hex-holding feature to prevent turning of the stud while removing the nut.

Remove and discard the 2 outer tie-rod end nuts.
Using the Ball Joint Separator and Adapter, disconnect the outer tie-rod ends from the wheel knuckles.

Fig 2: Disconnecting Outer Tie-Rod Ends From Wheel Knuckles Using Ball Joint Separator And Adapter
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the steering line-to-steering gear retainer bolt and the retainer.
Disconnect the pressure line from the steering gear.
- Remove the steering line clamp plate bolt and rotate the clamp plate.
- Discard the O-ring seal.
Disconnect the return hose from the steering gear.
- Discard the O-ring seal.
Remove the 2 bolts and the steering gear heat shield.
Pull out on the dash seal tabs and push the dash seal upward to detach it from the steering gear.
- Position the dash seal aside.
  
  Fig 3: Removing Dash Seal From Steering Gear
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the bolt and disconnect the lower steering column shaft from the steering gear.
- Discard the bolt.
Remove the 2 steering gear bolts and the steering gear.