2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 - Steering Gear Box

Steering Gear Box Failure Symptoms

The steering gear box is responsible for translating the rotation of the steering wheel through the steering linkage into wheel movement to turn the vehicle. The steering box can be found on the driver's side of the vehicle, attached to the frame and connected to the steering linkage. Input from the steering wheel and steering column turns a gear inside the steering gear box that moves the pitman arm pressed onto the output shaft gear, and the pitman arm may have to be removed and installed on a replacement gearbox if necessary. The steering gear box on your vehicle may be manual or power-assisted, depending on the design of your car. In manual systems, the driver provides all the force needed to turn the wheels, and in power-assisted systems, the driver is assisted by hydraulic power from the power steering pump while turning the wheels. Over time, the gears and bearings inside the steering gear box can wear out, causing looseness or play in the steering. This can make it difficult to control the vehicle, and may also cause grinding noises, burning oil smells, or power steering fluid leaks. If you notice any of these symptoms, the steering gear box may need to be replaced or rebuilt to restore the steering system to proper functionality. For your next steering repair, O'Reilly Auto Parts offers a selection of replacement steering gear boxes, pitman arms, tie rods, and more to help you complete your repair and get back on the road safely.