GM 26035404 Dust Seal

To remove the rack and pinion boot, start by loosening the front wheel lug nuts and raising the front of the vehicle. Support it securely on jackstands and remove the front wheels. Disconnect the stabilizer links from the stabilizer bar and remove the tie-rod end and jam nut. Then, remove the intermediate shaft coupler-to-rack and pinion input shaft pinch bolt. Support the rear part of the subframe with a floor jack and remove the two rear subframe mounting bolts. Slowly and carefully lower the subframe with the floor jack just enough to gain access to the inner clamps that secure the boots. Make sure the rack and pinion input shaft and shaft coupler separate without binding and detach any wiring harnesses or hoses that may come under tension. Mark the rack and pinion housing with the position of the small breather tube, if equipped. Remove the outer rack and pinion boot clamp with pliers and cut off the inner boot clamp with diagonal cutters. Slide the boot off the rod. To install the new boot, wrap the threads and splines on the end of the rack and pinion rod with tape to protect the small end of the new boot. Slide the new boot into position on the rack and pinion, ensuring the breather tube is connected and in the right position. Install new clamps to secure the boot. Slowly and carefully raise the subframe with the floor jack while guiding the rack and pinion input shaft into the shaft coupler. Install the pinch-bolt and tighten the nut to the specified torque. Install the rear subframe mounting bolts and tighten them to the specified torque. Reattach any wire harnesses or brackets that were removed. Remove the tape and install the tie-rod end. Install the stabilizer bar links. Finally, install the wheels and lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque. It is recommended to have the front-end alignment checked and adjusted if necessary.