Removal Procedure

CAUTION: With wheels of the vehicle facing straight ahead, secure the steering wheel utilizing steering column anti-rotation pin, steering column lock, or 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(s)
The steering gear

After disconnecting these components, do not rotate the steering wheel or move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow this procedure may cause the SIR coil assembly to become un-centered and cause possible damage to the SIR coil. If you think the SIR coil has became un-centered, refer to your specific SIR coil's centering procedure to re-center SIR Coil.

Remove as much power steering fluid from the power steering fluid reservoir as possible.
Place drain pans under the vehicle as needed.
Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .

CAUTION: Refer to Power Steering Hose Disconnected Caution .

Remove the engine shield, if equipped. Refer to Engine Shield Replacement .
If equipped with a diesel engine, remove the left wheelhouse liner. Refer to Front Wheelhouse Liner Replacement - Left Side .
Disconnect the steering hoses from the steering gear.
Disconnect the steering shaft coupling from the steering gear. Refer to Steering Shaft Coupling Replacement .

Fig 1: View Of Pitman Arm Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Discard the pitman arm nut.

Remove the pitman arm nut (1).

Fig 2: Disconnect The Pitman Arm From The Relay Rod (Non Rack and Pinion)

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Separate the pitman arm from the relay rod using puller J 24319-B . See Special Tools .

Fig 3: View Of Steering Gear Bolts

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Remove the steering gear bolts (1).
Remove the steering gear from the vehicle.
Transfer the pitman arm as necessary. Refer to Pitman Arm Replacement .