However, if you're determined to proceed, here's a general overview of the steps. This is *not* a complete, step-by-step guide, and specifics will vary depending on the year and model of your Astro van. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model. These manuals provide detailed diagrams and torque specifications crucial for success.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for exact details):
1. Disconnect the Battery: This is crucial to prevent electrical shorts.
2. Drain the Power Steering Fluid: This prevents messy spills.
3. Disconnect Steering Linkage: This connects the steering gear box to the steering column and wheels. You'll need to disconnect the tie rod ends and possibly other linkage components. Use a tie rod separator tool to avoid damage. Mark the position of components carefully for reassembly.
4. Disconnect Steering Column Shaft: This involves separating the steering column shaft from the steering gear box input shaft. This often requires special tools and careful alignment.
5. Disconnect Hydraulic Lines: Carefully disconnect the high-pressure and low-pressure power steering lines from the steering gear box. Be prepared for fluid leakage. Use appropriately sized wrenches and protect the lines to avoid damage.
6. Remove the Steering Gear Box Mounting Bolts: Locate and remove all the bolts securing the steering gear box to the vehicle's frame. The number and location of these bolts vary depending on the model year.
7. Remove the Steering Gear Box: Carefully lower the steering gear box out of the vehicle. It's heavy, so use appropriate lifting and support equipment.
8. Installation: Installation is the reverse of removal. Pay close attention to torque specifications to ensure proper function and prevent leaks. Proper alignment is crucial.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Repair Manual: Absolutely essential!
* Wrenches (various sizes): Including metric and SAE sizes.
* Sockets (various sizes): Including metric and SAE sizes.
* Ratchets: Multiple sizes.
* Tie rod separator tool: Essential for disconnecting tie rod ends.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for proper tightening of bolts.
* Power steering fluid: For refilling the system.
* Jack and jack stands: For safe working conditions.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the vehicle.
* Drain pan: To catch power steering fluid.
* Gloves and safety glasses: To protect yourself from fluid and debris.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding the Power Steering System: After reinstallation, you'll need to bleed the power steering system to remove air bubbles.
* Alignment: After reinstallation, a wheel alignment is strongly recommended.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Consult a repair manual specific to your Astro van for detailed instructions and safety precautions. If you lack experience, hiring a professional is the safest and often most cost-effective option. Improper installation can lead to dangerous driving conditions.
