Steering Gear: Service and Repair

Fig. 4 Exploded view of power rack & pinion steering gear assembly. Cavalier, Cimarron, Firenza, 2000 & Skyhawk; 1985-87 Calais, Grand Am & Somerset Regal; 1986-87 Skylark; 1987 Beretta & Corsica:

Fig. 5 Service procedures, power rack & pinion assembly. (Part 1 of 4) Cavalier, Cimarron, Firenza, 2000 & Skyhawk; 1985-87 Calais, Grand Am & Somerset Regal; 1986-87 Skylark; 1987 Beretta & Corsica:

Fig. 5 Service procedures, power rack & pinion assembly. (Part 2 of 4) Cavalier, Cimarron, Firenza, 2000 & Skyhawk; 1985-87 Calais, Grand Am & Somerset Regal; 1986-87 Skylark; 1987 Beretta & Corsica:

Fig. 5 Service procedures, power rack & pinion assembly. (Part 3 of 4) Cavalier, Cimarron, Firenza, 2000 & Skyhawk; 1985-87 Calais, Grand Am & Somerset Regal; 1986-87 Skylark; 1987 Beretta & Corsica:

Fig. 5 Service procedures, power rack & pinion assembly. (Part 4 of 4) Cavalier, Cimarron, Firenza, 2000 & Skyhawk; 1985-87 Calais, Grand Am & Somerset Regal; 1986-87 Skylark; 1987 Beretta & Corsica:

CAVALIER, CIMARRON, FIRENZA, SKYHAWK & 2000; 1985-87 CALAIS, GRAND AM & SOMERSET REGAL; 1986-87 SKYLARK; 1987 BERETTA & CORSICA

For service procedures on this power rack and pinion steering gear assembly, refer to Figs. 4 and 5.
If a condition of reduced power assist is encountered when the engine is started cold, it can be caused by improper rack and pinion valve rings. The proper rings are colored green; any other color ring should be replaced by using Seal Service Kit No. 7840573.
Wear marks in the housing valve bore are considered to be normal and should not require replacement of the housing.
On some 1983 Cimarrons, a clunking noise when reversing steering direction may be encountered. This condition may be caused by excessive piston ring to ring land clearance of piston and rod assembly. To verify this condition, during disassembly of the steering gear, insert a .010 inch feeler gauge at any point between piston and piston ring. If feeler gauge can be inserted, excessive clearance exists and replacement of piston rod assembly and piston ring is required.