Removal Procedure

2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4.2 S, 4WDSECTION Removal Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
    NOTE: The steering column must be in the LOCK position before disconnecting the following components:
    • The steering column
    • The steering shaft coupling
    • The intermediate shaft
    • The lower steering shaft

    After disconnecting these components, do not move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow these procedures may cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in possible damage to the SIR coil.
  1. LOCK the steering column and verify the front wheels are in the straight ahead position.
  2. Move the silencer pad away from the steering column.
  3. Fig 1: Steering Shaft Coupling, Intermediate Shaft And Coupling Bolt (FWD)
    GM820173Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  4. Use paint in order to place match marks on the steering shaft coupling (3) and on the intermediate shaft (4).
  5. Loosen the upper coupling bolt (7).
  6. Remove the lower coupling bolt (6).
  7. Fig 2: Crossmember Components (FWD)
    GM820261Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  8. Remove the steering column hole cover (4) from the bulkhead.
  9. Install the Engine Support Fixture. Refer to Engine Support Fixture in Engine Mechanical - 1.8L (LV6) or to Engine Support Fixture in Engine Mechanical - 1.8L (LNK).
  10. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  11. Remove the front tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  12. Remove the left engine splash shield. Refer to Splash Shield Replacement - Engine - Left in Body Front End.
  13. Remove the right engine splash shield. Refer to Splash Shield Replacement - Engine - Right in Body Front End.
  14. Remove the 2 outer tie rod ends (10,15). Refer to Rack and Pinion Outer Tie Rod End ReplacementΒ .
  15. Place a drain pan under the vehicle in order to collect the fluid from the power steering system.
  16. NOTE: Refer to Power Steering Hose Disconnected Notice in Cautions and Notices.
  17. Remove the pressure and return pipes (2,3) from the steering gear.
  18. Remove the bolt and the pipe bracket from the steering gear.
  19. Remove the following components together as a unit. Refer to Crossmember Replacement - Front Suspension (FWD) or Crossmember Replacement - Front Suspension (AWD) in Front Suspension.
    • The steering gear
    • The intermediate steering shaft
    • The front suspension crossmember
    • The trans support
    • The 2 control arms
    • The front stabilizer shaft
  20. Remove the bolt and the rear engine mount insulator from the crossmember.
  21. Remove the 3 bolts and the rear engine mount bracket from the crossmember.
  22. Fig 3: Intermediate Shaft, Steering Gear, Bolt And Crossmember (FWD)
    GM820294Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  23. Use paint in order to place match marks on the intermediate shaft (3) and on the steering gear (2).
  24. Remove the bolt (5).
  25. Remove the intermediate shaft (4).
  26. Remove the 4 bolts and the steering gear from the crossmember.
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.