Electric Power Steering Gearbox: Removal

CAUTION: For electric power steering model, be careful of the following items.

The power steering control module continues to operate after the engine stops and calculates the temperature in the control module. Therefore, before starting service of the power steering system which requires disconnection of the connector, stop the engine and allow approx. 30 minutes until the control module becomes cold.
Be careful not to let any foreign matter (dust, water, oil, etc.) enter into the power steering control module connector when removing or installing. If a foreign matter enters, completely remove it.

Lift up the vehicle, and then remove the front wheels.
Remove the under cover - front. <Ref. to REMOVAL , Front Under Cover.>
Remove the universal joint assembly - steering. <Ref. to REMOVAL , Universal Joint.>
Disconnect the ground cable from battery. <Ref. to BATTERY , NOTE, Note.>
NOTE: Disconnect the ground terminal from battery sensor.
Disconnect the connector and harness clamp from power steering control module.
Disconnect the tie-rod end.
1. Pull out the cotter pin (a).
2. Remove the castle nut (b).
3. Using a tie-rod ball joint puller, remove the tie-rod end (c).
Preparation tool:

Tie-rod ball joint puller

Fig 1: Removing Tie-Rod End Using Tie-Rod Ball Joint Puller
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the front crossmember support.

Fig 2: Locating Front Crossmember Support Screws
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the front exhaust pipe. <Ref. to REMOVAL , Front Exhaust Pipe.>
Remove the support plate - front crossmember (a).

Fig 3: Removing Support Plate - Front Crossmember
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Remove the bolts securing the steering gearbox assembly, and remove the stiffener (a) and steering gearbox assembly.

Fig 4: Locating Steering Gearbox Assembly Bolts

Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.