Ever since I bought my TB, my biggest complaint was with the 11ty billion turns it takes to get from lock-to-lock. I wanted to put in the SS steering gear since it has a quicker ratio, but apparently no one else has done this so I had no information to go by. Comparing part numbers from the parts catalog, it looked like SS and non-SS use the same steering knuckles and tie-rod ends and I figured with cost saving manufacturing methods the gear would be physically the same. So I found a steering gear out of a wrecked 2007 SS with 4k miles on it. At that point it looked like it would be no problem to bolt it in. However, in 2002 there was a first and second design tie-rod and thus steering knuckle. Of course, my truck had the first design. So I had to go back and buy the steering knuckles for the second design tie-rod. Then I figured since I was going to basically have "new" upper balljoints with the knuckles, I might as well put in new lower balljoints. So I bought 2 new AC/Delco lower balljoints to go with the package. The gear bolted right in with no problem at all (it was actually much easier than I thought it was going to be). Then I went to swap out the knuckles and balljoints, and it was a good thing I decided to do the lower balljoints because they were completely SHOT. And of course since nothing is easy on a Trailblazer, I tore up one of the boots and had to order another balljoint and wait for it to come. Then I threw it on the alignment rack and got the alignment PERFECT (I couldn't get caster right before, though the split was good so it didn't pull). So that shows why everyone with a lowered truck needs the DJM upper arms. Now my truck steers fantastic, and doesn't wander anymore when going down the road. I'm definately happy, even if it took longer than it was supposed to!
Cliffs: An SS steering gear will bolt in directly to any 03+ S/T truck, but if you have an 02 with 14mm tie-rod ends you will need steering knuckles as well.
Cliffs: An SS steering gear will bolt in directly to any 03+ S/T truck, but if you have an 02 with 14mm tie-rod ends you will need steering knuckles as well.
