Disassembly Procedure

2001 Chevrolet Chevy Express G3500, Van Passenger Extended, 6.5 FSECTION Disassembly Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Aztek and 2003 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. To remove the rack and pinion boot and the breather tube. Refer to RACK AND PINION BOOT AND BREATHER TUBE REPLACEMENT - OFF VEHICLE  .
  2. Place the gear in a vise.
    NOTE: Do not change the steering gear preload adjustment before moving the inner tie rod from the steering gear. Changing the steering gear preload adjustment before moving the inner tie rod could result in damage to the pinion and the steering gear.
  3. Remove the shock dampener (4) from the inner tie rod housing (6).
    Fig 1: Removing Shock Dampener From Inner Tie Rod Housing
    G01499370Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  4. Slide the shock dampener (4) back on the rack (5).
  5. Place a pipe wrench on the rack (5) next to the inner tie rod housing (6).
  6. Place a wrench on the flats of the inner tie rod housing (6).
  7. Rotate the inner tie rod housing (6) counterclockwise, while holding the rack stationary, until the inner tie rod separates from the rack (5).
  8. Remove the shock dampener (3) from the inner tie rod housing (2).
  9. Slide the shock dampener (3) back on the rack (5).
  10. Place a pipe wrench on the rack.
  11. Place a wrench on the flats of the inner tie rod housing (2).
  12. Rotate the inner tie rod housing (2) counterclockwise, while holding the rack stationary, until the inner tie rod (1) separates from the rack (5).
    Fig 2: Sliding Shock Dampener Back On Rack
    G01499371Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  13. If female rack (1) and male inner tie rod (3), remove the old LOCTITE® from the threads (2) of the inner tie rod and the rack.

    If male rack (5) and female inner tie rod (4) LOCTITE® will not be present.

    Fig 3: Removing LOCTITE From Threads
    G01499372Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.