Steering Gearbox: Removal

Disconnect battery ground cable.
Loosen front wheel nut.
Lift vehicle and remove front wheels.
Remove front exhaust pipe assembly.
2.5 L model
1. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Front Exhaust Pipe.>
3.0 L model
1. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Front Exhaust Pipe.>
WARNING: Be careful, exhaust pipe is hot.
Using a puller, remove tie-rod end from knuckle arm after pulling off cotter pin and removing castle nut.

Fig 1: Removing Tie-Rod End
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove jack-up plate and front stabilizer. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Stabilizer.>

Fig 2: Removing Jack-Up Plate & Front Stabilizer
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove one pipe joint at the center of gearbox, and connect vinyl hose to pipe and joint. Discharge fluid by turning steering wheel fully clockwise and counterclockwise. Discharge fluid similarly from the other pipe.

Fig 3: Removing Pipe Joint At Center Of Gearbox
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove universal joint. < Ref. to REMOVAL , Universal Joint.>
Disconnect pipes C (Pressure pipe assembly) and D (Return pipe assembly) from pipe of gearbox.
CAUTION: Be careful not to damage these pipes.

NOTE: Disconnect upper pipe D (Return hose assembly) first, and lower pipe C (Pressure hose assembly) second.

Fig 4: Disconnecting Pipes "C" & "D" From Pipe Of Gearbox
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove clamp bolts securing gearbox to crossmember, and remove gearbox.

Fig 5: Removing Clamp Bolts Securing Gearbox To Crossmember
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.