Q: How to Perform Rack And Pinion Removal and Installation?
A: To perform front suspension cross member removal and installation, begin by disconnecting the negative battery cable and waiting for at least two minutes. Then, detach the steering column lower universal joint from the rack and pinion input shaft. Loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the front of the vehicle, and support it securely on jackstands. Remove the front wheels and detach the tie-rod ends from the steering knuckles. Unplug the electrical connector from the power steering fluid pressure switch. Place a drain pan under the rack and pinion, and detach the power steering fluid pressure and return lines from the rack and pinion. Also, unbolt the cooler from the suspension cross member and free the lines from any clips on the cross member, plugging the lines and fittings to prevent excessive fluid loss and system contamination. Proceed by unscrewing the nuts and removing the pencil strut at the right front corner of the suspension cross member, then remove the drive belt splash shield and the lower torque strut-to-cross member bolt. Mark lines around the mounts of the cross member to preserve front-end alignment during reinstallation. Use a transmission jack or a good-quality floor jack to support the center of the cross member. Remove the six cross member-to-body bolts, ensuring not to completely unscrew the two control arm rear bushing bolts, and lower the cross member enough for access to the rack and pinion mounts and coupling. Using a hammer and punch, drive out the roll pin retaining the steering shaft coupling to the rack and pinion input shaft, and remove the input shaft cover seal from the rack and pinion. Carefully pry the cover from the tabs on the rack and pinion if necessary. Finally, remove the mounting bolts and detach the rack and pinion from the cross member. To reinstall, follow the reverse steps of removal, paying attention to specific points like aligning flats on the shaft and coupling, centering the rack and pinion, lubricating the cover seal, aligning match marks for cross member-to-body bolts, and following torque values for tightening all fasteners and lug nuts. Set the front wheels in the straight-ahead position, center the clockspring, and install the Steering Wheel and airbag module. Fill the power steering fluid reservoir with the recommended fluid and bleed the steering system.