Regal V6-3.8L VIN K (1997)
19.
While holding the stub shaft (1), remove the retaining nut (4) from the pinion shaft. Refer to Figure 1. Do not reuse the nut.
20.
Remove the lower retaining snap ring (1). Refer to Figure 3.
Important
The bearing retainer being removed in the next step is a small piece of wire that keeps all of the bearings evenly spaced inside the bearing
races.
21.
Using a small "pick" like tool, remove the bearing retainer from the bearing. Refer to Figure 4.
22.
After removing the bearing retainer, reposition the ball bearings into two groups of four. Refer to Figure 5.
23.
Separate the 2-legged puller from the center nut on the J 44714-B and insert the puller legs into the openings between the two groups of ball
bearings.
24.
With the forcing screw backed off, screw the center nut into the puller.
Tighten
Tighten the nut until it bottoms against the puller. Refer to Figure 6.
25.
While holding the center nut with a wrench, tighten the forcing screw to remove the bearing from the housing. Refer to Figure 7.
Important
Inspect the gear housing to ensure that all pieces of the old bearing have been removed.
26.
Apply a small quantity of lubrication (e.g., multi-purpose grease or power steering fluid) inside of the housing bore where the new bearing will be
installed.
27.
Center the new bearing over the pinion thread. The bearing can be installed with either side facing outwards.
28.
Place the bearing installer (1), J 44714-2 (included in J 44714-B) over the pinion thread. Refer to Figure 8. Lightly tap the bearing installer with a
hammer until the bearing is seated in the housing.
29.
Install a new snap ring. When properly installed, the large lug (1) on the snap ring must be on the right side as shown in Figure 9.
Notice
If the stub shaft is not held in the next step, damage to the pinion teeth will occur.
30.
While holding the stub shaft (1) install a new retaining nut (3) on the pinion shaft. Refer to Figure 10.
Tighten
Tighten to 30 Nm (22 lb ft).
31.
With the rack centered in the housing, tighten the adjuster plug (2) to 10 Nm (88 lb in), and then back off 40 to 50 degrees. Refer to Figure 11.
Check the torque on the pinion. Maximum pinion preload torque is 4 Nm (35 lb in).
32.
Tighten the adjuster plug lock nut (3) firmly against the steering gear housing while holding the adjuster plug (2) stationary.
33.
Install a new dust cap (2) to the steering gear housing.
34.
Install the steering gear in the engine cradle mounting brackets.
35.
Install the two bolts attaching the steering gear to the engine cradle.
Tighten
Tighten to 120 Nm (88 lb ft).
36.
Connect the power steering fluid lines to the steering gear.
Tighten
Tighten to 27 Nm (20 lb ft).
