Steering Gear: Service and Repair
Steering GearMaterial:
Removal and Installation
1. WARNING: The electrical power to the air suspension system must be turned off prior to hoisting, jacking or towing an air suspension vehicle. Failure to do so can result in unexpected inflation or deflation of the air springs, which can result in shifting of the vehicle during these operations.
If equipped, turn the air suspension service switch to the OFF position.
2. WARNING: If equipped with fire suppression system, depower the system. For important safety warnings and procedures, refer to Fire Suppression System.
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.
3. Hold the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position, using a suitable holding device.
4. CAUTION: Do not allow the intermediate shaft to rotate while it is disconnected from the steering gear or damage to the clockspring can result. If there is evidence that the intermediate shaft has rotated, the clockspring must be removed and recentered.
From the engine compartment, remove the bolt and detach the intermediate shaft from the steering gear.
^ To install, tighten to 30 Nm (22 lb-ft).
5. NOTE: The hex holding feature can be used to prevent turning of the stud while removing the nut.
Remove the nuts and detach the tie rods from the wheel knuckles.
^ To install, tighten to 80 Nm (59 lb-ft).
6. CAUTION: New O-ring seals must be installed any time the lines are disconnected from the steering gear.
Remove the clamp plate bolt and disconnect the steering gear lines.
^ Discard the O-ring seals.
^ To install, tighten to 18 Nm (13 lb-ft).
7. If equipped, disconnect the variable assist electrical connector from the steering gear.
8. Remove the steering gear-to-crossmember nuts.
^ To install, tighten to 103 Nm (76 lb-ft).
9. Remove the steering gear-to-crossmember studs and the steering gear.
^ To install, tighten to 20 Nm (15 lb-ft).
10. CAUTION: New O-ring seals must be installed any time the lines are disconnected from the steering gear.
To install, reverse the removal procedure.
^ Fill and leak check the system.
11. WARNING: If equipped with fire suppression system, repower the system. For important safety warnings and procedures, refer to Fire Suppression System.
If equipped with fire suppression system, repower the system.
12. If equipped, turn the air suspension service switch ON.