Chevrolet 26087098 Steering Gear Kit (Remanufacture)

On models equipped with an airbag, do not allow the steering shaft to rotate with the Rack And Pinion removed or damage to the airbag coil under the steering wheel may occur. To prevent the steering shaft from turning, place the ignition key in the Lock position and remove the key, or at the very least, wrap the seatbelt around the steering wheel and clip it to the buckle. Begin by disconnecting the cable from the negative battery terminal, ensuring to disable the anti-theft feature on models with a Delco Loe II audio system before disconnecting the battery. If equipped, remove the coupling shield, then disconnect the pressure and return hoses attached to the power steering Rack And Pinion assembly, plugging the ends of the disconnected hoses and the holes in the power steering housing to prevent contamination. Next, remove the nuts, lock washers, and bolts at the steering coupling-to-steering shaft flange, followed by the Pitman arm locknut and washer; mark the position of the Pitman arm in relation to the shaft and disconnect it using a Pitman arm puller. Remove the bolts securing the Rack And Pinion to the frame and separate it from the vehicle. When installing the Rack And Pinion, position it so that the coupling mounts properly to the flanged end of the steering shaft, secure it to the frame, install the washers and bolts, and tighten them to the specified torque. Finally, secure the steering coupling to the flanged end of the column with the lock washers and nuts, tighten the nuts, install the Pitman arm, tighten the nut, and connect the negative battery cable along with the coupling shield if applicable.