Removal and Installation
GEAR - INDEPENDENT FRONT SUSPENSIONREMOVAL
NOTE: The steering column on vehicles with an automatic transmission may not be equipped with an internal locking shaft that allows the ignition key cylinder to be locked with the key. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.
1. Lock the steering wheel.
2. Drain and siphon the power steering fluid from the reservoir.
3. Raise the vehicle.
4. Remove and discard the steering coupler pinch bolt.
5. Remove the power steering hoses from the rack & pinion.
6. Remove the tire and wheel assembly.
7. Remove the tie rod end nuts and separate tie rod ends from the knuckles with Special tool 8677.
8. Remove the skid plate.
9. Remove the rack & pinion mounting bolts (1).
10. Remove the rack & pinion (2) from the vehicle.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: Before installing gear inspect bushings and replace if worn or damaged.
NOTE: In the frame there is two holes for the mounting of the steering gear one is slotted and one is round, When tightening the gear to specifications make sure to tighten the mounting bolt with the hole first to avoid movement of the steering gear.
1. Install the gear on the front crossmember and tighten the mounting bolts (2) to 319 Nm (235 ft. lbs.) LD torque specification. Or tighten the mounting bolts to 251 Nm (185 ft. lbs.) 4X2 HD torque specification &.
2. Slide the shaft coupler onto the gear. Install new pinch bolt and tighten to 49 Nm (36 ft. lbs.).
3. Clean and dry the tie rod end studs and the knuckle tapers.
4. Install the tie rod ends into the steering knuckles and tighten the nuts to 61 Nm (45 ft. lbs.) then an additional 90°.
5. Install the pressure power steering hose to the steering gear and tighten to 32 Nm (23 ft. lbs.).
6. Install the return power steering hose to the steering gear and tighten to 71 Nm (52 ft. lbs.) LD torque specification. Or tighten the mounting bolts to 54 Nm (40 ft. lbs.) 4X2 HD torque specification.
7. Install the front skid plate.
8. Install the tire and wheel assembly.
9. Remove the support and lower the vehicle.
10. Fill the system with fluid.
11. Adjust the toe position.