Skylark V6-3100 3.1L VIN M SFI (1996)
Steering Gear Pinion Shaft: Customer Interest
Steering - Squeak/Squawk Type Noise When Turning Wheel
File In Section: 3 - Steering/Suspension
Bulletin No.: 83-32-08
Date: October, 1998
Subject:
Squeak/Squawk Type Noise while Steering
(Install Rack and Pinion Service Kit)
Models:
1995-98 Buick Skylark
1995-98 Oldsmobile Achieva
1995-98 Pontiac Grand Am
Condition
Some customers may comment about a squeak/squawk type noise coming from the steering column area when turning the steering wheel.
Cause
This condition may be caused by insufficient lubrication of the pinion shaft seal on the rack and pinion assembly.
Correction
1.
Refer to Corporate Bulletin 73-32-09 to determine if noise is originating from the steering column.
2.
Verify that the squeak/squawk noise is in the steering gear by disconnecting the column from the rack and pinion and manually turning the stub
shaft.
3.
If noise is confirmed to be in the rack and pinion assembly, remove rack and pinion assembly. Refer to service procedure in the Service Manual.
4.
Install pinion shaft seal kit, P/N 26032824.
5.
Install rack and pinion assembly. Refer to service procedure in the Service Manual.
6.
Align steering wheel.
7.
Reset front toe of vehicle. Refer to service procedure in the Service Manual.
Parts Information
P/N
Description
26032824
Pinion Shaft Seal Kit
Parts are currently available from GMSPO.
Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:
Labor Operation
Description
Labor Time
E9720
Gear Assembly, Power
1.2 hrs
Steering - R & R
Add
To Replace Stub Shaft
0.5 hr
Seals
Important:
For Check and Adjust Toe-In, Refer to Labor Operation E2000 and Add the Applicable Times to the Regular Hours Column.
