Rack and Pinion Assembly Installation

Install the rack and pinion assembly from below. The steering gear must be in a straight-ahead position, and the steering wheel spokes must be vertical and pointing to the left. Align the marks on the shafts to ensure proper positioning. Seat the stub shaft into the intermediate shaft.

Fig 1: Locating Mark On Stub Shaft Housing
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Connect the SSPS solenoid valve connector.

Fig 2: Identifying SSPS Solenoid Valve Connector
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Install the nuts and bolts on the steering gear mounting bracket.
Tighten:

Tighten the steering gear mounting bracket bolts and nuts to 60 N.m (44 lb-ft).

Fig 3: Identifying Nuts & Bolts Of Steering Gear Mounting Brackets
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Connect the tie rod ends to the strut assembly.
Install the outer tie rod nuts.
Tighten:

Tighten the outer tie rod nuts to 50 N.m (37 lb-ft).

Fig 4: Identifying Outer Tie Rod Nuts & Tie Rod Ends
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Install the lower intermediate shaft pinch bolt.
Tighten:

Tighten the intermediate shaft pinch bolt to 25 N.m (18 lb-ft).

Fig 5: Identifying Lower Intermediate Shaft Pinch Bolt
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Connect the power steering gear fluid inlet pipe.
Tighten:

Tighten the steering gear inlet pipe fitting to 28 N.m (21 lb-ft).

Fig 6: Identifying Power Steering Gear Fluid Inlet Pipe
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Connect the hose to the power steering gear fluid outlet pipe.
Install the wheels. Refer to WHEEL INSTALLATION .
Lower the vehicle.
Do a straight-ahead check. Refer to Straight-Ahead Check .
Refill the power steering system and check for leaks. If leaks are found, correct the cause of the leak and bleed the system. Refer to Checking and Adding Fluid , Power Steering System Leak Test and Bleeding the Power Steering System .
CAUTION: When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use power steering fluid DEXRON® IID or equivalent. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.
Connect the negative battery cable.

Fig 7: Identifying Hose From Power Steering Gear Fluid Outlet Pipe
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.