Installation Procedure

Fig 1: Rack & Pinion Gear Assembly, Boot & Inner Tie Rod Assembly

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Prior to the rack and pinion boot installation, apply grease to the inner tie rod (2) and the power steering gear (1).
Install the rack and pinion boot (3) onto the inner tie rod (2).
Install the breather tube while aligning the breather tube with the mark made during removal and the molded nipple of the rack and pinion boot.

IMPORTANT:

The rack and pinion boot (3) must not be twisted, puckered or out of shape in any way. If the rack and pinion boot (3) is not shaped properly, adjust the rack and pinion boot (3) by hand before installing the boot clamp.

Install the rack and pinion boot onto the power steering gear (1) until the rack and pinion boot (3) is seated in the power steering gear groove.

Fig 2: Using J 22610 To Install Boot Clamp

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Install the boot clamp (1) on the rack and pinion boot (2).
Crimp the boot clamp (1) using the J 22610 keystone clamp pliers.

Fig 3: View Of Tie Rod End Clamp At Rack & Pinion Boot

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Install the new boot clamp (2) onto the rack and pinion boot (1).

Fig 4: View Of Inner Tie Rod & Hex Jam Nut

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Install the hexagon jam nut (2) to the inner tie rod (1).
Install the outer tie rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement .
Check the wheel alignment. Refer to Wheel Alignment Measurement .