Removal of Steering Rack

The vehicles covered in this Manual are equipped with a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). Before performing any work near the airbag module, steering column or instrument panel, disconnect the SRS to avoid injury from accidental deployment (refer to the Body Electrical System section). SRS circuit wiring is easily identified by its yellow insulation. To avoid damaging the SRS, make sure the steering shaft does not rotate after the steering wheel is removed. Lock the column with the ignition key with the front wheels in the straight-ahead position.

REMOVAL

PROCEDURE

1. Park the vehicle with the front wheels in the straight-ahead position. Disconnect the negative battery cable first, then the positive cable.

If the installed audio system has an anti-theft code, make sure you have the correct code to activate the audio system before disconnecting the battery! Under the instrument panel, remove the cover from the steering column universal joint.

2. Mark the position of the steering column intermediate shaft relative to the input shaft of the steering rack, then loosen the pinch bolt.

3. Apply the parking brake. Loosen the wheel nuts. Raise the front of the vehicle and support it on stands. Remove the wheels.

4. Drain the PAS system hydraulic fluid into a suitable container: disconnect the pressure and return hydraulic lines from the steering gear housing.

Do not loosen the fittings of the lines leading to the power steering gear pressure cylinder.
5. To minimize fluid loss, plug the open ends of the lines.
6. Disconnect the steering tie-rod ends from the steering knuckle arms (refer to Tie-Rod End Removal and Installation).
7. Disconnect the l-sensor electrical connector (refer to Engine Control) and remove the catalytic converter.
8. Disconnect the shift linkage cable(s) (refer to Transmission Shift Linkage).

9. Remove the reinforcement plates from the chassis and steering gear housing.

10. Support the steering gear from below and remove its mounting bolts. Lower the rack-and-pinion assembly, carefully disengaging the intermediate steering shaft from the gear input shaft. To avoid contacting the rear crossmember, tilt the steering gear assembly slightly and remove it from under the vehicle.