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.

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HOMESERVICE MANUALSCHEVROLET2003TRAILBLAZER 4.2 S, 4WDREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 1873 (POWER STEERING SYSTEM)REPAIR INSTRUCTIONSSTEERING LINKAGE INNER TIE ROD REPLACEMENTASSEMBLY PROCEDURE

2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4.2 S, 4WD

Assembly Procedure

2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4.2 S, 4WDSECTION Assembly Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 Saturn Vue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Identifying Retaining Washer & Steering Gear Inner Tie Rod Housing

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Position the NEW steering linkage inner tie rod retaining washer (1).
Attach the steering linkage inner tie rod onto the steering gear rack.

CAUTION: Refer to Pipe Wrench Positioning Caution .

Place a pipe wrench on the steering gear rack next to the steering linkage inner tie rod housing (2).

CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution .

Place a torque wrench and OTC 09922-10010-01 Inner Tie Rod Wrench on the flats of the steering linkage inner tie rod housing (2) and tighten to 78 N.m (58 lb ft).
Bend the tabs over on the steering linkage inner tie rod retaining washer (1) to secure it.
Install the steering gear boot. Refer to Steering Gear Boot Replacement - Off Vehicle .
Install the steering gear. Refer to Steering Gear Replacement (HP5) or Steering Gear Replacement (NJ1 or HP7) or Steering Gear Replacement (NVH) .

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.