Contents Section: Manual & Power Steering All sections

Power Recirculating Ball Steering GMC Savana I

Manual & Power Steering 23 illustrations ~4274 words

MODEL IDENTIFICATION

Series (1)Model
"C"2WD Pickup, Sierra, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe & Yukon
"G"Express, G-Van & Savana
"K"4WD Pickup, Sierra, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon & AWD Escalade
"L"AWD Astro & Safari
"M"2WD Astro & Safari
"P"Commercial Van (P42) & Motorhome (P32)
"S"2WD Blazer, Envoy, Jimmy, Pickup & Sonoma
"T"4WD Blazer, Bravada, Envoy, Jimmy, Pickup & Sonoma
(1) Vehicle series is fifth character of VIN.
(1)Vehicle series is fifth character of VIN.

MODEL IDENTIFICATION - TRUCKS

DESCRIPTION & OPERATION

Steering gear is a variable ratio, recirculating ball-type which acts as a rolling thread between worm shaft and rack piston. The worm shaft is supported at lower end by a thrust bearing with 2 races. It is supported at upper end by a bearing assembly in the adjuster plug. Control valves, located inside steering gear housing, direct power steering fluid to either side of rack piston. (Scheme 1)

Steering linkage connects steering gear to front wheels through pitman arm. Steering linkage consists of pitman arm, idler arm, relay rod and tie rods. (Scheme 2)- (Scheme 12). Tie rod ends connect to relay rod by ball studs. Adjuster tubes between inner and outer tie rod ends are used to adjust toe. Some models have a shock absorber attached to relay rod.

Two different types of vane-type power steering pumps are used. The Model "P" pump is mounted inside reservoir. (Scheme 18) The Model "CB" pump is mounted below reservoir. (Scheme 20) On both models, vanes are driven by a rotor and move fluid from intake to pressure cavities of pump ring.

Scheme 1

Scheme 1: DESCRIPTION & OPERATION

Scheme 2

Scheme 2

Scheme 3

Scheme 3

Scheme 4

Scheme 4

Scheme 5

Scheme 5

Scheme 6

Scheme 6

Scheme 7

Scheme 7

Scheme 8

Scheme 8

Scheme 9

Scheme 9

Scheme 10

Scheme 10

Scheme 11

Scheme 11

Scheme 12

Scheme 12

FLUID TYPE

Manufacturer recommends General Motors Power Steering Fluid (1050017) or an equivalent. Failure to use proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage.

FLUID LEVEL CHECK

To check fluid level, run engine until power steering fluid reaches normal operating temperature, about 170°F (77°C). Turn engine off. Remove fluid reservoir cap, and check level gauge. On models with remote reservoir, fluid level should be 1/2"-1" from top of reservoir with wheels turned fully left. Add fluid through fluid reservoir cap as necessary, and recheck fluid level. DO NOT overfill system.

HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING

  1. Fill reservoir to correct level. Allow fluid to settle for no less than 2 minutes. Start engine and run for 30-60 seconds, then turn off. Check fluid level and add fluid (as necessary). Repeat procedure until fluid level in reservoir remains constant.
  2. Raise and support vehicle with both front wheels off ground. Start engine. Turn wheels right and left, lightly contacting stops. Check fluid level and add fluid (as necessary).
  3. Lower vehicle. Turn wheels right and left, slowly from lock to lock. Turn off engine. Check fluid level and add fluid (as necessary). If fluid is foamy, allow vehicle to sit for a few minutes and repeat bleeding procedure.

POWER STEERING PUMP BELT

ApplicationNew BeltUsed Belt
Serpentine Belt(2)(2)
"V" Belt (1)14667
(1) Tension in lbs. using "V" belt tension gauge. (2) Serpentine belts are equipped with self-tensioner. No adjustment is required.
(1)Tension in lbs. using "V" belt tension gauge.
(2)Serpentine belts are equipped with self-tensioner. No adjustment is required.

BELT TENSION

WORM BEARING PRELOAD

  1. Remove steering gear from vehicle and mount in vise before performing preload adjustments. See «STEERING GEAR»(/gmc/savana/i-1996-2002/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-recirculating-ball-steering) under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Remove worm bearing adjuster lock nut. (Scheme 1) Using spanner wrench, turn adjuster plug clockwise until plug is seated in housing. Torque should be about 20 ft. lbs. (27 N.m).
  2. Index mark housing even with one hole in adjuster plug. (Scheme 13) Measure back 1/2" counterclockwise from first index mark. Mark housing with second index mark. Rotate adjuster plug back counterclockwise until hole in adjuster plug aligns with second index mark on housing. Install and tighten adjuster plug lock nut. Ensure adjuster plug remains in position.

Scheme 13

Scheme 13

OVER-CENTER PRELOAD

Note. Adjust worm bearing preload before performing over-center preload adjustment.

  1. With worm bearing preload adjusted, rotate stub shaft slowly from stop to stop while counting total number of turns. With stub shaft positioned at either stop, rotate stub shaft back 2/3 total number of turns counted. Stub shaft should be back to exact center position. Flat on stub shaft should be facing upward and parallel to side cover and master spline on pitman shaft should be aligned with adjuster screw.
  2. Turn pitman shaft adjuster screw counterclockwise until extended, then back off one full turn. Place INCH-lb. torque wrench in vertical position on end of stub shaft. Measure gear over-center torque by rotating torque wrench attached to stub shaft in a 90-degree arc, 45 degrees on each side of center. (Scheme 14) Record highest degree of arc on each side of center. Record highest reading.
  3. Turn adjuster screw in until torque required to rotate stub shaft is 6-10 INCH lbs. (.6-1.1 N.m) greater than reading in step 2. Continue adjustment until over-center reading is within specification. See «LASH ADJUSTMENT PRELOAD»(/gmc/savana/i-1996-2002/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-recirculating-ball-steering) table. Tighten adjuster screw lock nut when reading is obtained.
ApplicationOver-Center INCH Lbs. (N.m)(1) Total INCH Lbs. (N.m)
New Gears6-10 (0.7-1.1)18 (2.0)
Used Gears (2)4-5 (.5-.6)14 (1.6)
(1) Total preload is sum of worm bearing and over-center preload. (2) In service for more than 400 miles.
(1)Total preload is sum of worm bearing and over-center preload.
(2)In service for more than 400 miles.

LASH ADJUSTMENT PRELOAD

Scheme 14

Scheme 14

TROUBLE SHOOTING

Note. See appropriate table in TROUBLE SHOOTING article in GENERAL INFORMATION.

HYDRAULIC SYSTEM PRESSURE TEST

  1. Ensure belt tension is correct. Disconnect high pressure line from power steering pump. Connect Power Steering Pressure Gauge (J-5176-D) hose to power steering pump fitting. Connect other hose from valve side of tester to steering gear inlet.
  2. Open valve on pressure gauge. Check fluid level and add fluid as necessary. Check for possible leaks at pressure gauge connections. Bleed air from system. See «HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING»(/gmc/savana/i-1996-2002/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-recirculating-ball-steering__hydraulic-system-bleeding) under LUBRICATION. Run engine until fluid reaches normal operating temperature of 150-170°F (66-77°C). Check fluid level and add fluid as necessary.
  3. Note pressure reading with valve open and engine idling. Pressure should be 80-125 psi (6-9 kg/cm 2 ). If pressure exceeds 200 psi (14 kg/cm 2 ), check hoses for restrictions and poppet valve for proper assembly.
  4. Completely close and open valve 3 times. Record highest reading each time. Readings should be within specification. See «PRESSURE TEST SPECIFICATIONS»(/gmc/savana/i-1996-2002/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-recirculating-ball-steering) table.
  5. If pressure readings are within specification and within 50 psi (4 kg/cm 2 ) of each other, pump is operating properly.
  6. If readings are within specification but not within 50 psi (4 kg/cm 2 ) of each other, flow control valve in pump is sticking. Remove valve, but DO NOT disassemble it. Clean valve. Flush system if dirty.
  7. If pressure is constant but more than 100 psi (7 kg/cm 2 ) less than specification, clean or replace flow control valve in pump. If readings are still low, replace pump.
  8. If pressure readings are as specified, turn steering wheel from stop to stop with valve open. Record highest pressure with wheels at both stops. If highest pressure is not equal to highest pressure recorded in step 2 , steering gear is leaking internally. Repair or replace assembly.
  9. Turn engine off. Remove tester. Reconnect pressure hose. Check fluid level. Bleed hydraulic system. See «HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING»(/gmc/savana/i-1996-2002/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-recirculating-ball-steering__hydraulic-system-bleeding) under LUBRICATION.
ApplicationIdle Pressure psi (kg/cm 2 )Relief Pressure psi (kg/cm 2 )
Astro & Safari80-125 (6-9)1250-1350 (87-95)
Commercial Van, Express, G-Van, Motorhome & Savana80-125 (6-9)1250-1450 (87-102)
C15/25 & "K" Series80-125 (6-9)1200-1300 (84-91)
C3580-125 (6-9)1465-1515 (103-106)
C35 (With Hydro-Boost)80-125 (6-9)1350-1450 (95-102)
"S" & "T" Series80-125 (6-9)1100-1200 (77-84)

PRESSURE TEST SPECIFICATIONS

Removal (Astro & Safari)

  1. Remove hood latch and upper radiator fan shroud. Remove power steering pump belt. Remove fan assembly from water pump. Remove lower radiator fan shroud. Center steering gear. Raise and support vehicle.
  2. Place drain pan under steering gear assembly. Disconnect return and feed lines from steering gear. Cap ends of lines and steering gear fittings. Remove intermediate shaft-to-steering shaft bolt, and separate intermediate shaft from steering shaft.
  3. Mark relationship of pitman arm-to-pitman shaft. Remove pitman arm nut and spring washer. Remove pitman arm using Puller (J-24319-01) or Remover (J-29107). Remove steering gear mounting bolts and washers. Remove steering gear.

Removal (Except Astro & Safari)

  1. Center steering gear. Raise and support vehicle. Place drain pan under steering gear assembly. Disconnect return and feed lines from steering gear. Cap ends of lines and steering gear fittings. Remove flexible coupling-to-intermediate shaft retaining screw. Remove flexible coupling (if equipped). Remove shield from intermediate shaft (if equipped).
  2. Mark alignment of lower clamp to steering shaft. Remove lower clamp bolt from steering shaft. Mark relationship of pitman arm-to-pitman shaft. Remove pitman arm nut and spring washer. Remove pitman arm using Puller (J-6632-01) or Remover (J-29107). Remove steering gear mounting bolts and washers. Remove steering gear.

Installation (All Models)

To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure lower clamp bolt hole is aligned with groove in worm shaft (if equipped). Ensure pitman arm-to-pitman shaft reference marks are aligned. Tighten bolts and nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table. Fill reservoir (if necessary). Bleed air from system. See HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING under LUBRICATION.

  1. Remove upper radiator fan shroud. Unload power steering pump belt tensioner. Remove power steering pump belt. Remove hood latch and upper radiator fan shroud. Using Pulley Remover (J-29785-A), remove pulley from pump shaft.
  2. On A/C-equipped models, remove A/C compressor and secure it aside. Place drain pan under steering pump assembly. Disconnect return and feed lines from steering pump. Cap ends of lines and steering pump fittings. Remove pump mounting bolts and remove pump.
  1. Place drain pan under steering pump assembly. Disconnect return and feed lines from steering pump. Cap ends of lines and steering pump fittings.
  2. Remove upper radiator fan shroud. Unload power steering pump belt tensioner (if equipped). Remove power steering pump belt. Remove bracket mounting nuts, and remove bracket (if equipped). Using Pulley Remover (J-25034-B), remove pulley from pump shaft. Remove pump mounting bolts and remove pump.

To install, reverse removal procedure. Use Pulley Installer (J-25033-B) to install pulley. Install pulley flush with end of pump shaft plus or minus .010" (.25 mm). Tighten bolts and nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table. Fill reservoir (if necessary). Bleed air from system. See HYDRAULIC SYSTEM BLEEDING under LUBRICATION.

Removal

Raise and support vehicle. Remove cotter pins and outer tie rod end nuts. Remove inner tie rod end nuts. Using Wheel Stud and Tie Rod Remover (J-6627-A), remove outer tie rod ball studs from steering knuckle and inner tie rod ball studs from relay rod. On Commercial Van and Motorhome with "I" beam axle, remove shock absorber from tie rod. On all models, loosen adjuster tube clamp bolts and clamps. Unscrew and remove tie rod ends from adjuster tube.

Installation

  1. Lubricate tie rod end threads with chassis lubricant before installing. Install inner and outer tie rod ends to adjuster tube. Inner and outer tie rod end threads must be adjusted equally within 3 threads. Install adjuster clamps and clamp bolts. Ensure clamps are positioned between locating dimples on ends of adjuster tube.
  2. Tie rod ends must rotate full travel and travel must be maintained during clamp tightening. Slot in adjuster tube and slot in clamp must be properly positioned.
  3. Install inner tie rod ends to relay rod ensuring seal is on ball stud. Tighten Steering Linkage Installer (J-29193 or J-29194) to 40 ft. lbs. (54 N.m) to seat tapers. Install and tighten inner tie rod end-to-relay rod nuts. Install outer tie rod end to steering knuckle.
  4. Install and tighten outer tie rod end nut. Tighten bolts and nuts to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/gmc/savana/i-1996-2002/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-recirculating-ball-steering) table. Adjust toe-in. See appropriate SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.
  1. Raise and support vehicle. Remove inner tie rod end nuts. Remove inner tie rod ends from relay rod (if equipped). On models without inner tie rods, remove tie rod end-to-steering knuckle nuts. Separate tie rod ends from steering knuckle.
  2. On all models, remove steering shock absorber nut from relay rod (if equipped). Using Steering Linkage Puller (J-24319-01), remove steering shock absorber from relay rod (if equipped). Remove connecting rod nut and remove connecting rod from relay rod (if equipped).
  3. Remove relay rod end nuts from pitman arm and idler arm. Using Steering Linkage Puller (J-24319-01), remove pitman arm and idler arm from relay rod. Remove relay rod. (Scheme 2)- (Scheme 12).

Reverse removal procedure. Ensure seals are on ball studs. Using Steering Linkage Installer (J-29193 or J-29194), seat all tapers to 40 ft. lbs. (54 N.m). Tighten nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table. Adjust toe-in. See appropriate SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.

IDLER ARM

Note. Replace idler arm assembly if an up and down force of 25 ft. lbs. (110 N.m), applied at relay rod end of idler arm, produces a lash of more than 1/8" (3 mm) for a total of 1/4" (6 mm) in straight-ahead position. (Scheme 15)

Raise and support vehicle. Remove idler arm-to-frame nut and bolt. Remove idler arm nut and spring washer from relay rod. Using Steering Linkage Puller (J-24319-01), remove idler arm from relay rod. Remove idler arm. (Scheme 2)- (Scheme 12).

To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure seal is on ball stud. Using Steering Linkage Installer (J-29193 or J-29194), seat tapers to 40 ft. lbs. (54 N.m). Tighten nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table. Adjust toe-in. See appropriate SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.

Scheme 15

Scheme 15: Installation

Removal (Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma & "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup)

  1. Raise and support vehicle. Disconnect air induction assembly. Slide up intermediate shaft cover. Mark intermediate shaft for reassembly. Remove intermediate shaft. Disconnect oil filter lines at crossmember bracket. Remove splash shield.
  2. Remove pitman arm nut and spring washer from relay rod. Using Steering Linkage Puller (J-24319-01), remove pitman arm from relay rod.
  3. Remove lower steering gear bolts. LOOSEN upper steering gear bolt. Rotate steering gear for pitman arm clearance at crossmember, and support gear using block of wood.
  4. Mark pitman arm-to-pitman shaft position. Remove pitman arm nut and spring washer from pitman shaft. Using Remover (J-6632-01) or Puller (J-29107), remove pitman arm from pitman shaft. (Scheme 11)and (Scheme 12).

Removal (All Other Models)

  1. Raise and support vehicle. Remove pitman arm nut from relay rod (if equipped). Using Steering Linkage Puller (J-24319-01), remove pitman arm from relay rod (if equipped). Remove pitman arm nut from connecting rod (if equipped). Using Steering Linkage Puller (J-24319-01), remove pitman arm from connecting rod (if equipped).
  2. Mark relationship of pitman arm-to-pitman shaft position. Remove pitman arm nut and spring washer from pitman shaft. Using Remover (J-6632-01) or Puller (J-29107), remove pitman arm from pitman shaft. (Scheme 2)- (Scheme 10).

To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure pitman arm-to-pitman shaft reference marks are aligned. Ensure seal is on ball stud. Using Steering Linkage Installer (J-29193 or J-29194), seat tapers to 40 ft. lbs. (54 N.m). Tighten nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table.

Removal (Models With "I" Beam Axle)

Raise and support vehicle. Remove connecting rod nuts from pitman arm and steering arm. Using Steering Linkage Puller (J-24319-01), remove connecting rod from pitman arm and steering arm. Mark position of adjuster tube and direction of bolt installation. Loosen adjuster tube clamp bolts and clamps. Unscrew and remove connecting rod ends from adjuster tube.

  1. Lubricate connecting rod end threads with chassis lubricant before installing. Install connecting rod ends to adjuster tube. Connecting rod end threads must be adjusted equally within 3 threads. Install adjuster clamps and clamp bolts. Slot in adjuster tube and slot in clamp must be properly positioned.
  2. Connecting rod ends must rotate through full travel and travel must be maintained during clamp tightening. Install connecting rod end to pitman arm, ensuring seal is on ball stud. Tighten Steering Linkage Installer (J-29193 or J-29194) to 40 ft. lbs. (54 N.m) to seat tapers. Install and tighten connecting rod-to-pitman arm nut.
  3. Install connecting rod end to steering arm. Install and tighten connecting rod-to-steering arm nut. Tighten bolts and nuts to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(/gmc/savana/i-1996-2002/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-recirculating-ball-steering) table. Adjust toe-in. See appropriate SPECIFICATIONS & PROCEDURES article in WHEEL ALIGNMENT.

Removal (Except Models With "I" Beam Axle)

Raise and support vehicle. Remove connecting rod nuts from pitman arm and relay rod. Using Steering Linkage Puller (J-24319-01), remove connecting rod from pitman arm and relay rod.

To install, reverse removal procedure. Ensure seal is on ball stud. Using Steering Linkage Installer (J-29193 or J-29194), seat tapers to 40 ft. lbs. (54 N.m). Tighten nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table.

Remove steering shock absorber nut from relay rod. Using Steering Linkage Puller (J-24319-01), remove steering shock absorber from relay rod. Remove steering shock absorber-to-frame nut and bolt. Remove steering shock absorber.

Reverse removal procedure. Ensure seal is on ball stud. Using Steering Linkage Installer (J-29193 or J-29194), seat tapers to 40 ft. lbs. (54 N.m). Tighten nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table.

Disassembly

  1. Mount steering gear in vise, clamping onto one mounting tab. Pitman shaft should be in a vertical position. Insert punch through housing access hole to unseat retaining ring. Pry retaining ring out of groove in housing.
  2. Rotate stub shaft counterclockwise to force housing end plug from housing. Remove seals and ring. Using Rack Piston Arbor (J-21552) and socket, remove rack piston end plug from rack piston.
  3. Remove side cover bolts. Remove pitman shaft nut and spring washer from lower end of shaft retaining pitman arm. Remove pitman shaft and side cover assembly. Remove pitman shaft adjuster screw lock nut. Remove pitman shaft cover. Remove gasket from side cover.
  4. Remove pitman shaft lower dust seal and rubber boot (if equipped). Using snap-ring pliers, remove pitman shaft lower retaining ring. Remove pitman shaft lower seals and washer. Using Pitman Shaft Bearing Puller (J-6278), remove pitman shaft bearing from housing.
  5. Insert Rack Piston Arbor (J-21552) into end of rack piston assembly until arbor seats into end of worm shaft. Threaded arbor will keep recirculating balls from falling out of rack piston. Rotate stub shaft counterclockwise, forcing rack piston onto arbor. Remove rack piston and arbor assembly. Ensure arbor is fully inserted so recirculating balls will not fall out.
  6. Remove adjuster plug lock nut. Using spanner wrench, remove adjuster plug. Remove valve body, stub shaft, worm shaft, seal, bearing races and worm bearing assembly from housing. If further disassembly is required, see appropriate component under «OVERHAUL»(/gmc/savana/i-1996-2002/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-recirculating-ball-steering) .

Inspection

Clean components using solvent, and blow dry. Avoid wiping valve components using cloth. Lint may cause binding of mechanism. DO NOT steam clean hydraulic parts.

Reassembly

  1. Lubricate components with power steering fluid before reassembly. Install valve body, stub shaft and worm shaft assembly into housing.
  2. Place seal protector over stub shaft. Install adjuster plug until it seats against valve body. Remove seal protector from housing. Loosely install adjuster plug lock nut. Insert rack piston (with arbor to retain recirculating balls) into housing. Align worm shaft and rack piston. Turn stub shaft clockwise to engage worm shaft. Maintain pressure on arbor until worm shaft is fully engaged. Remove arbor.
  3. Install NEW pitman shaft side cover gasket. Thread pitman shaft side cover onto adjuster screw until it bottoms. Back off 1/2 turn. Install pitman shaft so center sector gear tooth meshes with center groove in rack piston. Install side cover bolts.
  4. Install adjuster screw lock nut halfway onto pitman shaft. Install rack piston end plug in rack piston. Install housing end plug seals, ring, end plug and retainer ring. Adjust worm shaft bearing preload and over-center preload. See «WORM BEARING PRELOAD»(/gmc/savana/i-1996-2002/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-recirculating-ball-steering__worm-bearing-preload) and «OVER-CENTER PRELOAD»(/gmc/savana/i-1996-2002/remont/manual-power-steering/#power-recirculating-ball-steering__over-center-preload) under ADJUSTMENTS.

Using snap-ring pliers, remove adjuster plug retaining ring. Remove adjuster plug washer and seal. Using screwdriver, pry up bearing retainer at raised area. Using Bearing Remover (J-8524-1) and Driver (J-7079-2), remove bearing from adjuster plug.

Inspect bearings and races for scoring, pitting and wear. Inspect adjuster plug threads for damage.

Note. Retainer projections must not extend beyond washer when retaining ring is seated. Adjuster plug washer must be free to rotate.

Using Bearing Remover (J-8524-1) and Driver (J-7079-2), install bearing into adjuster plug. Install bearing retainer. Lubricate seal with power steering fluid. Install adjuster plug seal, washer and retaining ring.

  1. Mark position of worm bearing races and bearing to worm shaft. Mark position of worm shaft notches to valve body. Remove worm shaft from valve body and stub shaft assembly. Remove stub shaft seal. Remove worm bearing races and bearing from worm shaft.
  2. Lightly tap end of stub shaft against wood block until shaft cap is free of valve body. Pull stub shaft outward until drive pin hole is visible. (Scheme 16)
  3. Disengage drive pin. Remove stub shaft from valve body. Rotate and remove valve spool from valve body. If binding occurs, realign valves.
  4. Remove spool valve seal. Remove valve body rings and seals.

Scheme 16

Scheme 16
  1. Clean components using solvent, and blow dry. Inspect stub shaft for nicks and burrs. Remove nicks and burrs using crocus cloth if possible. Inspect shaft pin for wear and cracks.
  2. Check valve spool fit in valve body. Remove nicks and burrs using crocus cloth if possible. Lubricate valve spool with power steering fluid. Rotate valve spool in valve body. If valve spool does not rotate freely, replace complete valve and stub shaft assembly.
  3. Valve assembly is balanced during assembly. If replacing any components other than rings or seals, replace complete valve and stub shaft assembly.
  1. Lubricate valve body components with power steering fluid. Install NEW rings and seals. Lubricate spool valve seals with power steering fluid and install on valve spool. Carefully insert valve spool into valve body.
  2. Push valve spool through valve body until locating pin hole is visible at opposite end of valve body, and valve spool is flush with notched end of valve body. Install stub shaft into valve spool and valve body.
  3. Align stub shaft locating pin with valve spool locating hole. Align notch in stub shaft cap with pin in valve body. Install stub shaft seal into valve body.
  4. Install bearing and races on worm shaft, aligning marks made during disassembly. (Scheme 1) Install worm shaft onto valve body and stub shaft assembly, aligning notches made during disassembly.

Remove ball guide clamp screws and clamps. Remove ball guides. Remove all recirculating balls from rack piston. (Scheme 1)

Clean components using solvent, and blow dry. Inspect rack piston grooves for scoring. Inspect ball bearings for damage. If any ball bearings are damaged, replace entire set. Check ball guides for cracks or dented ends. Inspect rack piston teeth for chips, cracks, dents and scoring. If rack piston is damaged, replace rack piston and worm shaft as an assembly.

  1. Lubricate seals and ring with power steering fluid and carefully install onto rack piston. Install worm shaft into rack piston until worm shaft touches piston shoulder. While turning worm shaft counterclockwise, insert ball bearings into rack piston.
  2. Install 6 balls in ball guide, alternating ball colors. Bearings in guide must be in sequence with bearings in rack piston. Hold balls in place with chassis lubricant. Install return ball guide assembly into position.
  3. Install clamp. Tighten clamp screws. (Scheme 17) Insert Rack Piston Arbor (J-21552) into rack piston until it contacts worm shaft. Maintain pressure on arbor, and back worm shaft out of rack piston. DO NOT allow ball bearings to drop out.

Scheme 17

Scheme 17

Disassembly (Model "P")

  1. Using Puller (J-29785-A), remove pulley from shaft if not previously removed. Remove union fitting and "O" ring. Remove reservoir retaining bolts. Remove reservoir and "O" rings from housing.
  2. Using punch and screwdriver, remove end plate retaining ring. Remove end plate and pressure plate spring. (Scheme 18) Remove "O" ring, flow control valve, and spring. Using soft-face hammer, tap end of drive shaft to loosen pressure plate.
  3. Remove pressure plate, pump ring, vanes, retaining ring, rotor, and thrust plate assembly from housing. Remove drive shaft. Pry drive shaft seal from housing. Remove dowel pins and seals.
  1. Clean all pump components with solvent and blow dry. Inspect flow control valve assembly for wear, scoring, burrs and other damage. Inspect seal bore for burrs, nicks and score marks.
  2. Inspect machined surfaces of body for scratches or burrs. Check "O" ring mating surfaces. Inspect drive shaft for excessive wear.
  3. Inspect pump ring for roughness. Check thrust plate and pressure plate for scoring and wear. Ensure vanes slide freely but fit snugly into slots. If vanes are loose in slots, replace rotor and/or vanes.
  1. Lubricate all "O" rings, seals, pump ring, rotor and vanes with power steering fluid. Using socket, press NEW drive shaft seal into housing.
  2. Install dowel pins and all "O" rings. Install drive shaft and thrust plate. Install pump rotor into housing with counterbore facing drive shaft side of steering pump.
  3. Install NEW drive shaft retaining ring, ensuring ring is seated in groove. Install vanes with rounded edges toward pump ring. Install pump ring and pressure plate. Install "O" ring, flow control valve, and spring.
  4. Install pressure plate spring, end plate, and retaining ring. Install seals and reservoir. Install union fitting, "O" ring, and reservoir retaining bolts.

Scheme 18

Scheme 18

Scheme 19

Scheme 19: Disassembly (Model "CB")

Scheme 20

Scheme 20
  1. Remove pump assembly from vehicle. Remove retaining clips between reservoir and housing and remove reservoir from housing.
  2. Remove union fitting and "O" ring. Remove control valve assembly and flow control spring.
  3. Protect drive shaft with shim stock and using a small chisel, cut drive shaft seal and remove. Using small drift punch, remove end cover retaining ring. (Scheme 19)
  4. Remove internal components of pump by gently pushing on drive shaft. (Scheme 20)
  5. Remove "O" ring from pump housing. Remove locating dowel pins. Remove drive shaft seal (if not already removed). Remove end cover, pressure plate spring and "O" ring from pressure plate.
  6. Remove pump ring and vanes from drive shaft subassembly. Remove retaining ring from drive shaft. Remove pump rotor and thrust plate from drive shaft.

Clean all parts in power steering fluid and dry with compressed air. Inspect pressure plate, pump ring, vanes, thrust plate and drive shaft for scoring, pitting or chatter marks. Replace any damaged parts.

Scheme 21

Scheme 21: Reassembly

Scheme 22

Scheme 22
  1. Lubricate NEW drive shaft seal with power steering fluid and drive seal into pump housing using Seal Driver (J-7728). (Scheme 21)
  2. Install pump ring dowel pins into pump housing. Assemble thrust plate and pump rotor onto drive shaft. Fit NEW retaining ring to shaft. (Scheme 22)
  3. Install drive shaft subassembly into pump housing. install vanes into pump rotor. With holes positioned correctly onto dowel pins, install pump ring into pump housing.
  4. Lubricate NEW "O" ring with power steering fluid and install into pump body. Install pressure plate and pressure plate spring.
  5. Lubricate NEW "O" ring with power steering fluid and install into end cover. Lubricate outer edge of end cover with power steering fluid. Press end cover into pump housing. When installing retaining ring into groove, ensure opening of ring is near access hole in pump housing. (Scheme 23)

Scheme 23

Scheme 23

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS

ApplicationFt. Lbs. (N.m)
Adjuster Plug Lock Nut78-81 (106-110)
Connecting Rod Adjuster Clamp Nut
Models With "I" Beam Axle50 (68)
Connecting Rod-To-Pitman Arm Nut
Astro & Safari35 (47)
Commercial Van With "I" Beam Axle & Motorhome70 (95)
"C" Series Pickup With "I" Beam Axle36 (49)
Connecting Rod-To-Relay Rod Nut
Astro & Safari35 (47)
Motorhome70 (95)
Connecting Rod-To-Tie Rod Nut
"C" Series Pickup With "I" Beam Axle77 (104)
Idler Arm Mounting Bolts
Astro & Safari
AWD102 (138)
2WD78 (106)
Commercial Van30 (41)
Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma & "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup60 (81)
Escalade, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon & "C" & "K" Series Pickup78 (106)
Express, G-Van & Savana35 (47)
Idler Arm-To-Relay Rod Nut
Astro & Safari35 (47)
Commercial Van, Express, G-Van, Motorhome & Savana66 (89)
Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma, & "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup
2WD35 (47)
4WD60 (81)
Escalade, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, & "C" & "K" Series Pickup40 (54)
Intermediate Shaft-To-Stub Shaft Bolt
Astro & Safari29 (39)
Commercial Van
With I-Beam Axle80 (108)
Without "I" Beam Axle75 (102)
Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma, "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup26 (35)
Escalade, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon & "C" & "K" Series Pickup30 (41)
Express, G-Van & Savana46 (62)
Pitman Arm-To-Relay Rod Nut
Commercial Van, Express & Savana66 (89)
Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma, "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup60 (81)
Escalade, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon & "C" & "K" Series Pickup46 (62)
Pitman Arm-To-Steering Gear Nut
Commercial Van With "I" Beam Axle & Motorhome125 (169)
All Other Models184 (249)
Pitman Shaft Adjuster Screw Lock Nut
Commercial Van, Express, G-Van & Savana35 (47)
Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma, "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup20 (27)
All Other Models32 (43)
Rack Piston End Plug110 (149)
Relay Arm-To-Relay Rod Nut
Motorhome66 (89)
Shock Absorber-To-Frame Bolt
Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma, & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup26 (35)
Commercial Van With "I" Beam Axle35 (47)
Motorhome8 (11)
Escalade, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, "C" & "K" Series Pickup30 (41)
"C" Series Pickup With "I" Beam Axle33 (45)
Shock Absorber-To-Idler Arm Nut
Motorhome46 (62)
Shock Absorber-To-Relay Rod Nut45-46 (61-62)
Shock Absorber-To-Tie Rod Nut
Models With "I" Beam Axle46 (62)
Side Cover Bolts
Commercial Van, Express, G-Van & Savana45 (61)
Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma, "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup40 (54)
All Other Models48 (65)
Steering Gear Mounting Bolts
Astro, Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma, Safari, "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup55 (75)
Commercial Van110 (149)
Escalade, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, "C" & "K" Series Pickup110 (149)
Express, G-Van & Savana110 (149)
Steering Pump Mounting Bolts
Astro, Escalade, Safari, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, & "C" & "K" Series Pickup36 (49)
Commercial Van
4.3L & 5.7L25 (34)
6.2L Diesel32 (43)
7.4L36 (49)
Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma, & "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup
2.2L20 (27)
4.3L36 (49)
Express, G-Van & Savana
4.3L, 5.0L, 5.7L & 7.4L Engine36 (49)
6.2L Diesel32 (43)
Tie Rod Adjuster Clamp Nut
"C" Series Pickup With "I" Beam Axle50 (68)
All Other Models14 (19)
Tie Rod Jam Nut
Commercial Van With "I" Beam Axle277 (375)
Tie Rod-To-Relay Rod Nut
Astro, Envoy, Jimmy, Safari, Sonoma, & "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup35 (47)
Commercial Van, Express, G-Van, Motorhome & Savana66 (89)
Escalade, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, & "C" & "K" Series Pickup40 (54)
Tie Rod-To-Steering Arm Nut
"C" Series Pickup With "I" Beam Axle66 (89)
Escalade, Sierra, Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon, & "C" & "K" Series Pickup40 (54)
Tie Rod-To-Steering Knuckle Nut
Astro & Safari
AWD37 (50)
2WD35 (47)
Commercial Van, Express, G-Van, Motorhome & Savana46 (62)
Commercial Van With "I" Beam Axle162 (220)
Envoy, Jimmy, Sonoma, & "S" & "T" Series Blazer & Pickup35 (47)
Union Fitting55 (75)

TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS