Steering Lower Shaft Assembly Removal And Installation: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Suzuki Grand Vitara, 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara, and 2006 Suzuki Grand Vitara. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Turn steering wheel so that vehicle's front tires are at straight-ahead position.
Turn ignition switch to LOCK position and remove key.
Make alignment marks (1) on steering upper shaft (2) and steering lower shaft for a guide during reinstallation.
Remove joint bolt (4) and disconnect upper shaft (2) from joint (3).

Fig 1: Disconnecting Upper Shaft From Joint
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.
Remove joint bolt (2) and then remove lower shaft assembly (1).
NOTE: When yellow paint (3) cannot be confirmed make alignment marks on steering lower shaft assembly lower joint (1) and pinion shaft of P/S gear case assembly (4) for a guide during reinstallation.

Fig 2: Identifying Pinion Shaft Of P/S Gear Case Assembly, Joint Bolt & Lower Shaft Assembly
Courtesy of SUZUKI OF AMERICA CORP.