Chevrolet Sonic Repair Manual: Steering Gear Boot Replacement

Special Tools

CH-804  Tensioner

For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools.

Removal Procedure

1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
2. Remove the steering linkage outer tie rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.




Note:

Place match marks on the steering linkage inner tie rod nut and the steering linkage inner tie rod before removing. During installation of the nut, align the match marks.

3. Remove the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (1).
4. Remove the steering gear boot outer clamp (2).


5. Remove the steering gear boot inner clamp (3). Discard the clamp.
6. Remove the steering gear boot (2).
7. Clean the steering linkage inner tie rod and the steering gear boot contact area of any lubricant or debris.

Installation Procedure

1. Install a new steering gear boot inner clamp (3) loosely on the steering gear boot (2).
2. Apply the lubricant from the service kit to the steering linkage inner tie rod and to the steering gear boot (2).

Note:

The steering gear boot must seat in the appropriate groove on the steering gear.

3. Install the steering gear boot (2) over the steering linkage inner tie rod and onto the steering gear.


4. Use the CH-804  tensioner in order to crimp the inner steering gear boot clamp (1).



5. Install the steering gear outer boot clamp (2).
6. Install the steering linkage inner tie rod nut (1).
7. Install the steering linkage outer tie rod. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
8. After installation is complete, measure and adjust the front toe. Refer to Wheel Alignment - Steering Wheel Angle and/or Front Toe Adjustment.

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