2005 Cobalt LS Stuck Rack&Pinion(Trouble with Removal)

[Dabs]

I have a 2005 Cobalt LS and ran into steering issues. The rack&pinion broke internally while I was driving and it's been a headache since. The problem I have is that I followed the procedures for removing the R&P, yet it seems "stuck" in between from I can see the frame and an engine mount. It moves, I just can't get it out of the car because part of the R&P looks too large for this area to pass through. From what I have read it's supposed to just slide out of the Drivers side wheel well. Am I missing something like turning it a specific direction IE clockwise or counter? Removing tierods from the R&P so I can get said turn? Or do I somehow have to remove said motor mount to get the R&P out? Any help would be appreciated, Thank you.

-Patrick

 

[five7man]

See attachment

 

[Dabs]

See attachment

Dude Thank you!!! This is the first I've seen that #1 says to use a tierod removal tool and #2 To remove the Rear Trans Mount. This was the specific information I was looking for man, thank you!

 

[five7man]

Thanks, you don't have to follow what they say to the letter, but at least you have a rough outline to follow, kind of like selective hearing when people tell you stuff.

 

[Dabs]

Just an update and another odd issue. I've got the point where I've now replaced the rack and installed the new tierods however: When installing the new steering shaft I noticed that the new one was ~1inch shorter than the original. I've looked at everyone from AdvancedAuto to RockAuto etc & they all come up with the same Dorman # 425-109 which is the one I purchased to replace the broken one. Now I've found a couple that "look" longer but have no specifications on the length of the shaft. Should I contact a Chevy dealership and ask them? I'm kind of lost at this point if every parts store is pulling up the same exact part.

 

[five7man]

The steering shaft should slide to expand and contract so it's not one fixed length.

 

[Dabs]

The steering shaft should slide to expand and contract so it's not one fixed length.

Really?!? Ok, I'll have to look at it again... I didn't notice a way to make it do that but I'll check it out. It's notched/indexed on both sides, I might have overlooked it. If that's what it is, the cobalt will be driving today! Thanks again five7man!

 

[Dabs]

Yep, you sir were correct. I have no idea how I didn't see that or think of it. I was thinking since it was the steering shaft the center was meant to be solid, not a slide. I wish I could give you some cookies lol Thanx again Man! You're a saver!

 

[five7man]

Lol, I do like cookies!!!!
Glad to be of help.