I did that and they say they cannot tell with the VIN either. This shouldn't be that hard. Really didn't want to tear this apart before I had the replacement part.
01 Chev Suburban 1500. Need a new steering gear/box and can't find the production code. Called dealer and they were unable to provide anything other than pricing a factory replacement. ($500 more that parts houses) Anyone know how to identify if it is a UT, AX, or LS?