However, if you're determined to do it yourself, here's a general outline of the process. This is not a comprehensive guide and should not be considered a substitute for a professional repair manual specific to your 1998 Malibu. Always consult a repair manual for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and safety precautions.
1. Preparation and Safety:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
* Gather Tools: You'll need a variety of tools including sockets, wrenches, a torque wrench, a fluid catch pan, jack stands, a jack, possibly a steering wheel puller, and possibly a power steering fluid pressure relief tool.
* Obtain Parts: Get a new power steering gear box (ensure it's the correct one for your Malibu), new power steering fluid, new power steering hoses (if needed), new seals and gaskets.
* Consult Repair Manual: A Haynes or Chilton manual specific to your 1998 Malibu is crucial. It will provide detailed diagrams and instructions.
2. Removing the Old Power Steering Gear Box:
* Drain Power Steering Fluid: Drain the power steering fluid into a catch pan.
* Disconnect Steering Linkage: Disconnect the steering linkage from the gear box. This will likely involve removing cotter pins and/or nuts.
* Disconnect Power Steering Hoses: Carefully disconnect the high-pressure and low-pressure power steering hoses from the gear box. Be prepared for some fluid spillage. Use a catch pan and rags.
* Disconnect Electrical Connections: Disconnect any electrical connectors attached to the gear box.
* Remove Mounting Bolts: Loosen and remove the bolts that secure the gear box to the frame. These are often difficult to access.
* Remove the Gear Box: Carefully remove the old power steering gear box from the vehicle.
3. Installing the New Power Steering Gear Box:
* Install Mounting Bolts: Carefully install the new power steering gear box, ensuring it's properly aligned. Tighten the mounting bolts to the specifications in your repair manual. Don't overtighten!
* Connect Power Steering Hoses: Carefully connect the high-pressure and low-pressure power steering hoses to the new gear box. Make sure the connections are secure and free of leaks.
* Connect Steering Linkage: Connect the steering linkage to the new gear box.
* Connect Electrical Connections: Reconnect any electrical connectors.
* Fill with Power Steering Fluid: Add the correct type and amount of power steering fluid as specified in your repair manual.
* Bleed the System: You may need to bleed the power steering system to remove air bubbles. This usually involves turning the steering wheel lock-to-lock several times while adding more fluid as needed. Refer to your repair manual for the proper bleeding procedure.
4. Testing and Final Steps:
* Check for Leaks: Carefully inspect for any leaks around the hoses and the gear box.
* Test Steering: Start the engine and carefully test the steering. It should be smooth and responsive.
* Top Off Fluid: If necessary, top off the power steering fluid.
* Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
Important Considerations:
* Alignment: After replacing the power steering gear box, you might need a wheel alignment.
* Professional Assistance: If you're unsure about any step, consult a professional mechanic. Incorrect installation can lead to serious damage and injury.
* Torque Specifications: Always follow the torque specifications provided in your repair manual. Using the incorrect torque can damage the gear box or other components.
This is a complex repair. Again, refer to a repair manual specific to your 1998 Chevrolet Malibu before attempting this repair. The steps above are generalized and might vary slightly depending on your vehicle's specific configuration. Your safety and the proper repair of your vehicle are paramount. If in doubt, seek professional help.
