Notice: Do not start the vehicle with any power steering gear inlet or outlet hoses disconnected. When disconnected, plug or cap all openings of components. Failure to do so could result in contamination or loss of power steering fluid and damage to the system.

1. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
2. Remove the steering linkage shield, if equipped. Refer to Steering Linkage Shield Replacement in Steering Linkage.
3. Install a drain pan under the vehicle.



4. Disconnect the pressure hose from the power steering pump.
5. Lower the vehicle.
6. Remove the air cleaner assembly. Refer to Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls 4.3L.



7. Disconnect the power steering gear pressure hose from the power steering gear.
8. Remove the power steering gear pressure hose from the vehicle.

Notice: The inlet and outlet hoses must not be twisted during installation. Do not bend or distort the inlet or outlet hoses to make installation easier. Failure to follow these procedures could result in component damage.

1. Install the power steering gear pressure hose to the vehicle.




Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

2. Connect the power steering pressure hose to the power steering gear.

Tighten
Tighten the power steering pressure hose to the power steering gear to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).

3. Install the air cleaner assembly. Refer to Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls 4.3L.
4. Raise the vehicle.



5. Connect the power steering pressure hose to the power steering pump.

Tighten
Tighten the power steering pressure hose to the power steering pump to 25 N·m (18 lb ft).

6. Remove the drain pan from under the vehicle.
7. Install the steering linkage shield, if equipped. Refer to Steering Linkage Shield Replacement in Steering Linkage.
8. Lower the vehicle.
9. Bleed the power steering system. Refer to Power Steering System Bleeding .