SYS.OK|MANUAL.DB● LIVE
HOMESERVICE MANUALSGMC1966SUBURBAN 5.7L ENG, ENG CD 351REPAIR AND DIAGNOSIS (SINGLE PAGE)STEERINGSTEERING GEARMANUAL STEERING GEARS - (SAGINAW) RECIRCULATING BALLADJUSTMENTOVER-CENTER PRELOAD
1966 GMC Suburban 5.7L Eng, Eng CD 351

Over-Center Preload

1966 GMC Suburban 5.7L Eng, Eng CD 351SECTION Over-Center Preload
  1. Turn steering wheel slowly from stop to stop counting total number of turns, then turn wheel back exactly half-way to center position. Loosen lash adjuster lock nut. Turn lash adjuster screw clockwise to take out all lash between ball nut and sector shaft teeth, then tighten lock nut.
  2. Check torque at steering wheel recording highest reading as wheel is turned through center position (see specifications ). If necessary, loosen lock nut and readjust lash adjuster screw to obtain proper torque reading. Tighten lock nut and again check torque reading. If maximum specification is exceeded, turn lash adjuster screw counterclockwise, then come up on adjustment by turning adjuster clockwise.
  3. Reinstall pitman arm to sector shaft lining up marks made during disassembly. Torque sector shaft nut.
    NOTE: If a clamp type pitman arm is used, spread pitman arm with a wedge just enough to slip arm onto shaft by hand pressure. Do not hammer on pitman arm or damage to steering gear may result.

    Install horn button or shroud and connect battery ground.

WORM BEARING PRELOAD

Application (1) INCH Lbs.
1965-66 All Models (2) 1 1/16-1 1/4
1967 Models
  C 10-30, G 10-20, P-10 5-9
  K 10-20 4-7
  P 20-30 9-13
1968-74 Models
  C 10-30, K 10-20, P-10 4-6
  P 20-30 9-12
  G 10-20 (1968-70) 4-6
  G 10-30 (1971-74) 6-11
(1) Measured with INCH Lb. torque wrench on steering wheel nut (except as noted).
(2) Pounds as measured on spring scale hooked to outer edge of steering wheel and spoke.
OVER-CENTER PRELOAD

Application (1) INCH Lbs.
1965-66 All Models (2) 1 1/4-2 1/8
1967 Models
  C 10-30, G 10-20, P-10 5-11
  K 10-20 4-7
  P 20-30 18-22
1968-74 Models
  C 10-30, G 10-20, P-10 (3) 4-10
  G 10-30 (1971-74) (3) 5-11
  P 20-30 (3) 9-13
(1) Measured with INCH Lb. torque wrench on steering wheel nut (except as noted).
(2) Pounds as measured on spring scale hooked to outer edge of steering wheel and spoke.
(3) In excess of worm bearing 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.

Shop Manual-Ready ToolsFree Quote CheckQuote Shield Pro

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.