Q: How to remove the steering gear boot for Chevrolet Cobalt,HHR and Saturn ION?
A: To remove the rack and pinion boot, start by loosening the lug nuts and raising the vehicle, then support it securely on jackstands. Remove the wheel and proceed to remove the tie-rod end and jam nut. Use pliers to remove the outer rack and pinion boot clamp and cut off the inner boot clamp with diagonal cutters. Slide off the boot. Before installing the new boot, wrap the threads and serrations on the end of the steering rod with tape to protect the small end of the new boot. Slide the new boot into position on the rack and pinion, ensuring it seats in the groove in the steering rod, and install new clamps. Remove the tape and proceed to install the tie-rod end. For installation, start by installing the wheel and lug nuts, then lower the vehicle and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specifications. Finally, have the front end alignment checked.