Steering Column: Service and Repair

Removal Of Steering Column:

Removal


Refer to Fig. 8, for component identification.
1. Disarm airbag system as described under Air Bags and Seat Belts/Air Bags (Supplemental Restraint Systems)/Service and Repair/Airbag System Disarming.
2. Park vehicle with wheels in straight ahead position, then turn ignition switch to Lock position and rotate steering wheel approximately 16° counterclockwise until locked into position.
3. Remove four airbag module retaining nuts on back of steering wheel, then remove the airbag module.
4. Disconnect airbag module connector, then loosen steering wheel retaining bolt four to six turns.
5. Caution should be taken not to use a knock-off type steering wheel puller or strike the steering wheel or shaft with a hammer. These could damage the bearing or collapse the steering column.
6. Remove steering wheel with Remover Tool T67L-3600-A or equivalent. Ensure that while removing steering wheel so no damage to the clockspring or airbag electrical connector happens.
7. Remove defroster duct connecting hose and steering column lower shroud.
8. Loosen steering column lower retaining nuts, then remove the upper retaining nuts.
9. Rest steering column on I/P and remove ignition lock shield and ignition switch retaining screw. Ignition switch will remove as an assembly with lock shield.
10. Disconnect electrical connectors from turn signal and hazard switch, then the harness connectors from the airbag module, key warning, windshield switch and slip ring assembly.
11. Remove steering shaft universal joint pinch bolt, then pull steering column out of I/P. Ensure no damage to any wiring or components.
12. Reverse procedure to install, torquing as follows:
a. Lower steering column retaining bolts to 14-18 ft. lbs.
b. Upper steering column retaining bolts to 14-18 ft. lbs.
c. Universal Pinch bolts to 14-18 ft. lbs.
13. Reconnect battery ground cable.
14. Reactivate airbag and verify lamp operation as described in Air Bags and Seat Belts/Air Bags (Supplemental Restraint Systems)/Service and Repair/Airbag System Disarming after completing repairs.