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Home › Pontiac › 2003 › Vibe Base, AWD › Repair and Diagnosis › Steering › Power Steering System › Repair Instructions › Power Steering Gear Replacement (AWD) › Installation Procedure

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the rear engine mount bracket to the crossmember.
    NOTE: Refer to FASTENER NOTICE .
  2. Install the 3 bolts to the rear engine mount bracket.
    1. Tighten 
    2. Tighten the bolts to 64 N.m (47.2 lb ft).
  3. Install the rear engine mount insulator to the crossmember.
  4. Install the bolt to the rear engine mount insulator.
    1. Tighten 
    2. Tighten the bolt to 87 N.m (64.2 lb ft).
  5. If you are replacing the steering gear, copy the match marks from the old parts to the same locations on the new parts.
  6. Install the steering gear (11) to the crossmember.
    Fig 1: Locating Steering Gear Components
    G01545641Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  7. Install the 2 bolts (12,13) to the steering gear.
    1. Tighten 
    2. Tighten the bolts to 82 N.m (60.5 lb ft).
  8. Install the steering column hole cover (5) to the bulkhead.
  9. Install the following components as a unit. Refer to FRONT SUSPENSION CROSSMEMBER REPLACEMENT (FWD) or FRONT SUSPENSION CROSSMEMBER REPLACEMENT (AWD) in Front Suspension.
    • The steering gear
    • The front suspension crossmember
    • The trans support
    • The 2 control arms
    • The front stabilizer shaft
  10. Install the 2 outer tie rod ends (8,16). Refer to TIE ROD END REPLACEMENT - OUTER  .
    NOTE: Refer to INSTALLING HOSES WITHOUT TWISTS OR BENDS NOTICE .
  11. Install the pressure and return pipes (3,4) to the steering gear.
    1. Tighten 
    2. Tighten the pipe nuts to 23 N.m (17.0 lb ft).
  12. Install the 2 pipe bracket bolts (1,2).
    1. Tighten 
    2. Tighten the bolts to 7.8 N.m (69.04 lb. in).
  13. Install the left engine splash shield. Refer to SPLASH SHIELD REPLACEMENT - ENGINE - LEFT in Body Front End.
  14. Install the right engine splash shield. Refer to SPLASH SHIELD REPLACEMENT - ENGINE - RIGHT in Body Front End.
  15. Install the front tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in Tires and Wheels.
  16. Lower the vehicle.
  17. Remove the Engine Support Fixture. Refer to ENGINE SUPPORT FIXTURE in Engine Mechanical - 1.8L (LV6).
  18. Align the match marks on the steering gear pinion shaft (4) and on the steering shaft coupling (3).
    Fig 2: Locating Steer Column Components
    G01545642Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  19. Install the lower coupling bolt (6).
    1. Tighten 
    2. Tighten the bolt to 35 N.m (25.8 lb ft).
  20. Tighten the upper coupling bolt (7).
    1. Tighten 
    2. Tighten the bolt to 35 N.m (25.8 lb ft).
  21. Place the silencer pad into the correct position.
    NOTE: When adding fluid or making a complete fluid change, always use the proper power steering fluid. Failure to use the proper fluid will cause hose and seal damage and fluid leaks.
  22. Fill the power steering fluid reservoir. Refer to CHECKING AND ADDING POWER STEERING FLUID  .
    NOTE: Refer to AIR IN THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM NOTICE .
  23. Bleed the power steering system. Refer to BLEEDING THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM  .
  24. Inspect the power steering system for leaks. Repair as necessary.
  25. Measure the wheel alignment. Adjust as necessary. Refer to MEASURING WHEEL ALIGNMENT in Wheel Alignment.
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