GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

  1. Unlock the steering column so the linkage is free to move.
  2. Remove the battery and support tray. Refer to Battery Replacement in Engine Electrical.
  3. Raise the vehicle.
  4. Support the vehicle with safety stands.
  5. Remove the front wheels. Refer to Wheel Removal in Tires and Wheels.

  6. Object Number: 141852  Size: SH
  7. Remove the steerage linkage shield, if equipped.

  8. Object Number: 141840  Size: SH
  9. Remove the differential carrier shield, if equipped.

  10. Object Number: 141855  Size: SH
  11. Remove the drain plug and flat washer. Drain the lubricant from the carrier.
  12. Remove the wire from the indicator switch.
  13. Remove the vent hose.
  14. Remove the steering relay rod from the idler and pitman arms. Refer to Relay Rod Replacement in Steering Linkage.
  15. Remove the front propeller shaft. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.
  16. Remove the right and left drive axles. Refer to Halfshaft Assembly Replacement .

  17. Object Number: 6834  Size: SH
  18. Remove the bolts and nuts. Hold the upper nut with an 18 mm wrench inserted through the frame.

  19. Object Number: 6833  Size: SH
  20. Remove the bolts and nuts.
  21. Remove the carrier assembly. Roll the carrier counterclockwise while lifting up to gain clearance from the mounting ears.
  22. Remove the tube bolts from the carrier.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 6834  Size: SH
  1. Install the tube assembly.

  2. Object Number: 6833  Size: SH
  3. Install the tube assembly bolts to the carrier assembly.
  4. Install the carrier assembly to the vehicle.
  5. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  6. Install the bolts and nuts.
  7. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 103 N·m (76 lb ft) or the nuts to 75 N·m (55 lb ft).

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  8. Install the upper mounting bolt, washer, and nut.
  9. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 48 N·m (36 lb ft).


    Object Number: 177821  Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  10. Install the front propeller shaft retainers and bolts.
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the bolts to 20 N·m (15 lb ft).

  12. Install the right and left drive axles. Refer to Halfshaft Assembly Replacement .
  13. Install the vent hose.
  14. Install the idler and pitman arms to the steering relay rod. Refer to Relay Rod Replacement in Steering Linkage.
  15. Install the shaft and tube assembly. Refer to Inner Axle Housing Shaft and Housing Replacement.
  16. Install the indicator switch wire.
  17. Install the lower shock bolt and nut. Refer to Shock Absorber Replacement in Front Suspension.
  18. Check the axle lubricant level. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication.
  19. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  20. Install the drain plug and flat washer.
  21. Tighten
    Tighten the plug to 26 N·m (19 lb ft).

  22. Install the underbody shield, if equipped.
  23. Install the tires and wheels. Remove the safety stands and lower the vehicle.
  24. Install the battery tray and battery. Refer to Battery Replacement in Engine Electrical.