Note: When installing, use new steering gear clamp-to-bulkhead bolts and tie-rod-to-steer tie-rod bolt connecting plates.
Removing
1. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
2. On carburetor models, remove the air filter from the carburetor to improve access. On some models, it may be necessary to remove the coolant expansion tank and/or brake master cylinder bolts to gain access to the right steering gear mounting clip.
3. Set the front wheels in the straight ahead position.
4. Remove, using a screwdriver as a lever, the connecting plate (plates) from the bolts securing the steering rod to the steering gear, then unscrew the bolts and remove the washers and the gasket plate (see illustrations).
5. If the steering gear is equipped with a shock absorber, unscrew the clamp assembly bolts from the steering gear and remove the shock absorber.
6. Working in the driver's footwell, remove the lower trim panel.
7. On tilt steering models, move the steering column to the fully raised position.
8. Loosen and remove the top pinch bolt securing the steering shaft to the flexible coupling.
9. Working in the engine compartment, unscrew the bolts of the two clamps that tilt the steering gear to the bulkhead, then remove the steering gear from the left side of the engine compartment (see illustration). It may be necessary to have an assistant unfasten the flexible coupling from the steering gear shaft when removing it. Please note that on some models, various wires and hoses may be attached to the steering gear. Be sure to unfasten all such components before removing the steering gear.
Bulkhead
10. Inspect steering gear assembly for signs of wear or damage. Make sure the rack moves to its full length freely, evenly, with no sign of excessive play between the steering gear and the rack. Steering assembly housing components can be sorted out, but this task should be entrusted to an Opel dealer.
11. The only components that a car enthusiast can easily replace are the steering gear covers, tie rod ball joints, and the tie rods themselves. Procedures for replacing the tie rod, tie rod ends and protective covers of the steering mechanism are described in Chapters 36, 43 and 44.
Installation
12. Install in reverse order, paying attention to the following.
13. Use new mounting bolts to attach steering gear clamps to bulkhead (see illustration).
14. Connecting plate (plates) bolts of fastening of steering drafts to the steering mechanism at installation have to be replaced.
15. Finally, check the steering wheel alignment as described in Chapter 31.
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