Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
SYS.OK|MANUAL.DBβ LIVE
HOMESERVICE MANUALSCHEVROLET1983STEP VAN P20, 6.2 J, AUTOMATIC, 400/M40REPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)STEERINGMANUAL STEERINGSTEERING GEAR - POWERADJUSTMENTSTHRUST BEARING PRELOAD ADJUSTMENT
1983 Chevrolet Step Van P20, 6.2 J, Automatic, 400/M40
Thrust Bearing Preload Adjustment
1983 Chevrolet Step Van P20, 6.2 J, Automatic, 400/M40SECTION Thrust Bearing Preload Adjustment
- Remove steering gear from vehicle. Remove adjuster plug lock nut. Turn adjuster plug clockwise with a spanner wrench until plug is seated in housing. This will require 20-30 ft. lbs. (27-41 N.m) of torque.
- Place an index mark on housing opposite one spanner wrench hole in adjuster plug. Measure 1/2" (13 mm) counterclockwise from mark and again mark housing. Rotate plug counterclockwise until hole in adjuster lines up with second mark.
- Tighten lock nut. Ensure adjuster remains in position.
NOTE:
If reading does not fall within this range, adjuster plug may have turned while lock nut was being tightened. Steering gear may be incorrectly assembled or worm shaft thrust bearings and races may be defective. Repair as required and readjust preload.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
Recommended Tools & Savings
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.