How to Install a New Steering Rack in a Chevy Silverado

How to Install a New Steering Rack in a Chevy Silverado. Chevrolet's Silverado remains in second place in sales behind the Ford F-Series, but when combined with the GM Sierra using the same platform, the two trucks take a solid first place. You want to keep your Silverado's steering as stable as possible, and if you feel it consistently pulling in one direction it may be time to install a new steering rack assembly.

Check your steering system for other problems before installing a new rack and pinion. You may simply need to balance or rotate your tires, replace the power steering fluid or align your front end. You might also be having problems with the power steering pump.

Drain your power steering fluid and remove the negative battery cable. Raise and stabilize the front end to remove the wheels. You also need to remove the engine shield, if it shipped with your model.

Unhook the power steering pressure lines and the stabilizer shaft. Unscrew the coupler clamp bolt on the intermediate shaft. Disconnect the outer tie rod. Remove the intermediate shaft from the rack assembly as well as the mounting bolts, washers and nuts.

Install the new rack and pinion assembly. Replace the washers and bolts, then torque the nuts to 136 foot pounds. Torque the intermediate shaft's coupler clamp bolt to 33 foot pounds to reconnect the shaft.

Reattach the hoses. Tighten the clamps to 20 foot pounds. Reassemble the tie rod ends, stabilizer shaft and wheels. Don't forget the engine shield.

Lower the vehicle. Reconnect the battery and replace the power steering fluid. Idle the engine to let the fluid level and check for leaks.