Malibu V6-191 3.1L VIN M SFI (1997)
20.
Center the new bearing over the pinion thread. The bearing can be installed with either side facing outwards.
21.
Place the bearing installer (1) J 44714-2 (included in J 44714-B) over the pinion thread. Refer to Figure 8. If necessary, use the extension included
with the installer. Lightly tap with a hammer until the bearing is seated in the housing.
22.
Install a new snap ring. Refer to Figure 9. When properly installed, the large lug (1) on the snap ring must be on the right side as shown.
Important
If the stub shaft is not held in the next step, damage to the pinion teeth will occur.
23.
While holding the stub shaft (1), install a new retaining nut (3) on the pinion shaft. Refer to Figure 10.
Tighten
Tighten the retaining nut to 30 Nm (22 lb ft).
24.
Install a new dust cap (2) to the steering gear housing.
25.
Center the rack in the housing.
Tighten
Tighten the adjuster plug (2) to 10 Nm (88 lb in), and then back off 40 to 50 degrees (4). Refer to Figure 11.
26.
Check the torque on the pinion. Maximum pinion preload torque is 4 Nm (35 lb in).
27.
Tighten the adjuster plug lock nut (3) firmly against the steering gear housing while holding the adjuster plug (2) stationary.
28.
Install the steering gear in the engine cradle mounting brackets.
29.
Install the two bolts that attach the steering gear to the engine cradle.
Tighten
Tighten to 80 Nm (59 lb ft).
30.
Raise the rear of the engine cradle and install the rear attaching bolts.
Tighten
Tighten to 180 Nm (133 lb ft).
31.
Connect the intermediate steering shaft to the steering gear and install the bolt.
Tighten
Tighten the bolt to 48 Nm (35 lb ft).
32.
Reposition the stabilizer bar.
33.
Install the left and right side stabilizer bar links to the lower control arm.
Tighten
Tighten to 23 Nm (17 lb ft).
34.
Lower the vehicle.
35.
Check the power steering fluid and add if necessary.
Steering Gear Replacement, If Required -- 1997-1998 Buick Regal, 1998 Oldsmobile Intrigue
For additional information on steering gear removal, refer to the Steering section in the appropriate Service Manual or SI.
The following service procedure is based on certain steps having already been performed in the inspection procedure.
