Electric assist rack and pinion stripped

BLAKESLIST

MEMBER
2008 CHEVROLET MALIBU
2.4L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

Hi,

I have to replace the rack and pinion because the gears stripped. The steering wheel turns but the wheels don't unless I put it on jack stands, but when binding one wheel, I can feel the rack gears stripping.
I suspect the internal preload yoke broke.

Can you tell how to make absolutely sure the new rack can line up with the steering shaft?
Also, what's the torque specs on the rack mounting bolts and the pinch bolts.

Thanks in advance,
Blake

3 Replies

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Good evening,

The steering shaft from the car has a blind spline that lines it up correctly.

You cannot install it incorrectly. I attached the procedure for you to view. The torque specs are in the procedure.

Roy

Steering Gear Replacement (EPS)

Removal Procedure

Notice: Secure the steering wheel utilizing a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:

The steering column
The intermediate shaft
The steering gear

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. Turn the front wheels to the straight forward position and secure the steering wheel from moving.
2. Disengage the steering linkage outer tie rods from the steering knuckles. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement (See: Tie Rod > Removal and Replacement > Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement).
3. Separate the intermediate steering shaft from the steering gear. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement (See: Steering Column > Removal and Replacement > Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement).

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4. Remove the transmission rear mount bolt.

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5. Remove the steering gear bolts, nuts, and washers from the steering gear.

Important: The position of the steering gear will need to be manipulated to remove it through the left front wheel opening.

6. Remove the steering gear through the left front wheel opening.
7. Transfer any parts as needed.

Installation Procedure

1. Install the steering gear through the left front wheel opening.

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Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice.

Important: Start all of the bolts and nuts by hand before finalizing any torques.

2. Install the steering gear bolts, nuts, and washers to the steering gear.

Tighten the bolts to 70 N.M (52 lb ft) plus an additional 90 degrees.

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3. Install the transmission rear mount bolt.

Tighten the bolt to 90 N.M (66 lb ft).

4. Install the intermediate steering shaft to the steering gear. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement (See: Steering Column > Removal and Replacement > Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement).
5. Install the steering linkage outer tie rods to the steering knuckles. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement (See: Tie Rod > Removal and Replacement > Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement).
6. Adjust the front toe. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment (See: Alignment > Procedures).

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