Required Tools and Materials:
- Steering gear box
- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Jack stands
- Jack
- Fluid drain pan
- New power steering fluid
- Rags
Step-by-Step Procedure:
1. Vehicle Preparation:
- Park your vehicle on a level surface, apply the parking brake, and allow the engine to cool down completely.
- Place the front of your vehicle on jack stands to safely raise the front end off the ground. Ensure that the vehicle is stable and properly secured before proceeding.
2. Disconnect the Battery:
- Disconnect the negative battery cable using the wrench to prevent electrical accidents during the process.
3. Locate the Steering Gear Box:
- Find the steering gear box situated behind the front wheels. It is a cylindrical-shaped component typically connected to steering linkages and the steering shaft.
4. Drain the Power Steering Fluid:
- Place a fluid drain pan under the steering gear box to catch any leaking fluid.
- Loosen the power steering fluid return line from the steering gear box and allow the fluid to drain into the pan.
5. Disconnect Steering Linkages:
- Use the wrenches to loosen and remove the tie rod end nuts and separate the tie rods from the steering arms.
- Disconnect the intermediate shaft from the steering gear box.
6. Remove Old Steering Gear Box:
- Remove the bolts that secure the steering gear box to the frame of the vehicle.
- Carefully remove the old steering gear box from the vehicle.
7. Install the New Steering Gear Box:
- Position the new steering gear box in place, aligning it with the mounting holes on the frame.
- Secure the steering gear box using the bolts removed earlier.
8. Reconnect Steering Linkages:
- Reattach the intermediate shaft to the steering gear box.
- Reconnect the tie rods to the steering arms and secure them with the nuts.
9. Refill Power Steering Fluid:
- Add new power steering fluid to the reservoir until the fluid level reaches the recommended level indicated on the dipstick.
10. Bleed the Power Steering System:
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes with the wheels turned from side to side to bleed air from the system.
- Recheck the power steering fluid level and add more if necessary.
11. Test Drive and Inspect:
- Take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure that the steering works properly and there are no leaks.
- Inspect the connection points and fluid lines for any signs of leaks.
12. Reconnect the Battery:
- Reconnect the negative battery cable to restore power to the vehicle.
Remember to take safety precautions when working with the vehicle and follow the instructions mentioned in the owner's manual or consult a professional mechanic if needed.
