Steering gear — removal and installation

Warning: Make sure the steering shaft is not turned while the steering gear is removed or you could damage the spiral cable for the airbag system. To prevent the shaft from turning, place the ignition key in the lock position or thread the seat belt through the steering wheel and clip it into place.

Note: Toyota requires the engine and transaxle assembly be removed to gain access to the steering gear.

Removal

1. Remove the engine and transaxle assembly.

2. Detach the pressure and return lines from the steering gear. Remove the steering gear mounting fasteners.

3. Pull the steering gear assembly out.

4. Check the, steering gear mounting grommets for excessive wear or deterioration, replacing them if necessary.

Installation

5. Place the steering gear into position, install the mounting fasteners and tighten them to the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifications.

6. Install the engine and transaxle assembly.

7. Connect the U-joint, aligning the marks, then attach the tie-rod ends to the steering knuckle arms (see Tie-rod ends — removal and installation).

8. Install the U-joint pinch bolt and tighten it to the torque listed in this Chapter’s Specifications.

9. Connect the power steering pressure and return hoses to the steering gear and fill the power steering pump reservoir with the recommended fluid (see Tune-up and routine maintenance). Reattach the bracket to the top of the steering gear assembly.

10. Lower the vehicle and bleed the steering system (see Power steering system (2011 and earlier models) — bleeding).