Steering Gear Replacement (Electronic Power Steering)

Steering Gear Replacement (Electronic Power Steering (EPS))

Removal Procedure

Notice: Secure the steering wheel utilizing a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:

^ The steering column

^ The intermediate shaft

^ The steering gear

After disconnecting these components, do not move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow these procedures may cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in possible damage to the SIR coil.

Turn the steering wheel to the straight forward position, support it from movement.
1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.
2. Remove the front tires and wheels.




3. Remove the intermediate shaft to steering gear pinch bolt. Discard the bolt.

Important: Secure the steering wheel in the straight forward position before separating the intermediate shaft from the steering gear, or damage to the SIR coil will occur.

4. Separate the intermediate shaft from the steering gear.
5. Remove the tie rod end castle nuts.





Notice: Do not free the ball stud by using a pickle fork or a wedge-type tool. Damage to the seal or bushing may result.

6. Using the J 24319-B, separate the tie rod ends from the steering knuckles.




7. Remove the rear transmission mount-to-transmission bolt.




8. Remove the steering gear to frame bolts.
9. Remove the steering gear through the left side of the vehicle. Rotate the gear 90 degrees in order to clear the rear transmission mount.
10. If replacing the steering gear, remove the outer tie rod ends. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement.

Installation Procedure

1. Install the outer tie rod ends to the steering gear. Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End Replacement.




2. Install the steering gear to the vehicle. Rotate the gear as necessary to clear the rear transmission mount.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice.

3. Install the steering gear to frame bolts.

Tighten the bolts to 70 N.m (52 lb ft) plus an additional 90 degrees.




4. Install the rear transmission mount-to-transmission bolt.

Tighten the bolt to 90 N.m (66 lb ft).




5. Connect the intermediate steering shaft to the steering gear as noted during removal.
6. Install the new intermediate steering shaft to steering gear pinch bolt.

Tighten the bolt to 49 N.m (36 lb ft).

7. Position the outer tie rod ends into the steering knuckles.

Important: Hold the ball stud from turning during installation of the castle nut.

8. Install new torque castle nuts to the tie rod end ball studs.

Tighten the castle nuts to 60 N.m (44 lb ft).

9. Install the front tires and wheels.
10. Lower the vehicle.
11. Measure the wheel alignment and adjust as necessary. Refer to Measuring Wheel Alignment.