GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Special Tools

SA9164C Clamp Pliers

Removal Procedure

  1. Remove the steering gear. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement.
  2. Note: Count the total number of complete rotations needed to remove the steering linkage outer tie rod from the steering linkage inner tie rod.

  3. Remove the steering linkage outer tie rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
  4. Remove the steering linkage inner tie rod nut.
  5. Remove the steering gear boot clamps and discard them.

  6. Object Number: 925777  Size: SH
  7. Remove the steering gear boot.
  8. Clean the steering linkage inner tie rod and steering gear boot contact area of any grease and debris.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 925777  Size: SH

    Note: The steering linkage inner tie rod and steering gear boot must be free of moisture and debris.

  1. Apply approximately 3/4 of the supplied grease packet into the small end of the steering gear boot cavity. Apply the remainder of the grease on the steering linkage inner tie rod where the small end of the steering gear boot meets it.
  2. Note: Make sure the larger end of the steering gear boot is firmly seated in the correct location on the steering gear.

  3. Install the steering gear boot with the larger steering gear boot clamp loosely attached.

  4. Object Number: 1865916  Size: SH
  5. Use pliers SA9164C to install the larger steering gear boot clamp (1).
  6. Important: Ensure the small end of the steering gear boot is firmly seated on the steering linkage inner tie rod end in the correct location.

  7. Install the smaller steering gear boot clamp.

  8. Object Number: 1865919  Size: SH
  9. Install the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (1) approximately 174 mm (6.85 in) from the smaller steering gear boot clamp.
  10. Install the steering linkage outer tie rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
  11. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

  12. Tighten the steering linkage inner tie rod nut and tighten to 60 N·m (44 lb ft).
  13. Install the steering gear. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement.
  14. Adjust the front toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment - Steering Wheel Angle and/or Front Toe Adjustment.