Regal V6-3.8L VIN K (1997)
Steering Gear: All Technical Service Bulletins
97-98 Malibu, 97-98 Cutlass
Lower Pinion Bearing Inspection -- 1997-1998 Chevrolet Malibu, 1997-1998 Oldsmobile Cutlass
Because of limited access in this vehicle, the pinion bearing can only be inspected after the steering gear has been completely removed from the
vehicle. For additional information on steering gear removal, refer to the Steering section in the appropriate Service Manual or SI.
Tools Required
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J 44714-B Pinion Bearing Remover
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J 24319-B Steering Linkage and Tie Rod Puller
1.
Open the hood.
2.
Raise the vehicle on a suitable hoist and support.
3.
Remove both front tire and wheel assemblies.
4.
Remove the nuts securing the outer tie rod ends to the steering knuckles.
5.
Using the J 24319-B, Steering Linkage and Tie Rod Puller, or equivalent, separate the outer tie rod ends from the steering knuckles.
6.
Remove the one bolts and two nuts attaching the rear transmission mount to the engine cradle.
7.
Support the rear of the engine cradle.
8.
Remove the six bolts that attach the rear of the engine cradle to the body.
9.
Partially lower the rear of the engine cradle.
10.
Remove the bolt and separate the intermediate steering shaft from the steering gear.
11.
Remove the stabilizer link bolts from both lower control arms.
12.
Lower the rear of the engine cradle as necessary to access the steering gear attaching bolts.
13.
Remove the two bolts attaching the steering gear to the engine cradle.
14.
Loosen and disconnect both power steering fluid lines from the steering gear.
15.
Remove the steering gear from the engine cradle mounting brackets.
16.
Remove the steering gear from the vehicle.
Important
When removing the dust cap in the next step, watch for loose ball bearings that may have separated from the inner and outer pinion bearing
races.
17.
Remove the dust cap (3) from the steering gear housing (2) and inspect for loose ball bearings. Refer to Figure 1.
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If no ball bearings were found in the dust cap, proceed to the next step and replace the lower pinion bearing.
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If one or more ball bearings were found loose in the dust cap, proceed to the section in this bulletin titled, "Steering Gear Replacement",
for the described vehicle.
Notice
Failure to perform the next step may result in damage to the lower pinion bearing removal tool J 44714-1.
18.
Loosen the adjuster plug lock nut (3) and the adjuster plug (2). Refer to Figure 2. Do not remove the plug.
Notice
If the stub shaft is not held in the next step, damage to the pinion teeth will occur.
