Steering: Service Precautions

Fluid Cautions

NOTE: Use Power Steering Fluid meeting GM specification 995010, in 1993 and 1994 power steering systems.

Automatic transmission fluid should not be used in these power steering systems. ATF is not compatible with the seals and hoses used in this system and will eventually cause damage. Also, power steering fluid must withstand very high pressure (about 1400 psi), whereas transmission fluid does not have the need to operate at these pressures. If ATF has been added to a power steering system as in an emergency situation, the system should be drained, flushed and refilled with power steering fluid as soon as possible to avoid damage.


Handling Cautions

When the steering column is removed from the vehicle, it is extremely susceptible to damage. Dropping the steering column assembly on its end could collapse the steering shaft assembly or loosen plastic injections that keep the steering column assembly rigid. Leaning on the steering column assembly could cause the jacket to bend or deform. Any of these conditions could impair the steering column assembly's collapsible design. If the steering wheel must be removed, use only the specified steering wheel puller and steering wheel puller bolts. Never hammer on the end of the shaft.

Fastener Cautions

It is important that only the specified screws, bolts and nuts be used during the mandatory reassembly sequence and torqued to specifications to insure proper breakaway action of column under impact. Avoid using excessively long bolts as they may prevent a portion of the steering column from collapsing under impact.
When removing or installing, steering wheel, ignition switch or lock, turn signal switch, adjusting transmission linkage, or installing and adjusting neutral-start or back-up light switch, refer to appropriate car chapter.

Inspection

If a shift tube shows a sheared plastic injection, a new shift tube must be installed. If a steering shaft shows a sheared plastic, but it is not bent, it can be repaired by using a Service Steering Shaft Repair Kit part number 7810077. The kit contains instructions and dimensions for all steering columns. On some models, the attaching brackets will shear under impact and must also be replaced.