Pontiac FIREBIRD 1972 Service Manual page 1211

1972 PONTIAC SERVICE MANUAL
Fig. 9 - 6 9 Removing Pitman Shaft Assembly
11. Remove the locknut from the adjuster plug.
12. Remove the locknut from the pitman shaft lash ad-
juster screw in the side cover.
13. Remove the pitman shaft lash adjuster screw from
the side cover by turning the screw clockwise.
14. Slide the adjuster screw and shim out of the slot in
the end of the pitman shaft (Fig. 9-72).
15. Pry out and discard both the pitman shaft and worm-
shaft seals.
INSPECTION
1. With the steering gear completely disassembled,
wash all parts in cleaning solvent. Dry them
thoroughly with air.
HOLD ASSEMBLY
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1 -
HORIZONTAL TO
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Fig. 9 - 7 0 Removing the Wormshaft and Ball Nut
Fig. 9-7 1 Removing Lower Bearing Retainer from Adjuster
Plug
With a magnifying glass, inspect the bearings and
bearing races for signs of indentation. Also check for
any signs of chipping or breakdown of the surface.
Any parts that show signs of damage should be re-
placed.
Inspect all seals. Any seal that is worn or has been
removed should be replaced.
Inspect the fit of the pitman shaft in its bushing in the
side cover. If this bushing is worn, a new side cover
and bushing assembly should be installed.
Check steering gear wormshaft assembly for being
bent or damaged in any way.
NOTE: Never attempt to salvage steering parts
by welding or straightening.
REPAIRS
PITMAN SHAFT AND WORMSHAFT
SEALS
The double lipped pitman shaft and wonnshaft seals
should be replaced each time a defective seal is indicated
or the steerhg gear is desassembled.
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PITMAN SHAFT CLEARANCE
SHIM
ADJUSTING
SCREW
Fig. 9 - 7 2 Pitman Shaft and Adjusting Screw