Steering Column: Description and Operation

NOTE: All fasteners are important in that they could affect the performance of vital parts and systems and result in major service expense. They must be replaced with fasteners with the same part number if replacement becomes necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during assembly to make sure of proper functioning of these parts.

The steering column has been designed for more efficient use of package space and improved strength.
^ The structural part of the column is made of magnesium die castings.
^ The column is attached to a support that is an integral part of the instrument panel.
^ The lower column attachments are through a bracket that bends during column collapse.
^ The upper attachments are through plastic shear modules that separate from the main casting during column collapse.
^ A supplemental air bag restraint system consisting of a driver side air bag module is located in the center of the steering wheel.
^ A unique shifter mechanism has been installed on column-shift models.
^ The insert plate is located away from the shift control selector lever and interacts with the shift control selector lever through a linkage system.
^ This system provides a positive interlock with no adjustments required.
^ The column is of a modular construction and features easy to service electrical switches.