Removal and Replacement
Steering Column: Removal and Installation
CAUTION:
- Do not exert any axial load or impact to the steering column.
- Do not move the steering gear while the steering column assembly is removed.
- Any time the ignition switch has been removed or installed, the keys must be re-registered in the BCM. Refer to SDT operation manual.
Removal
1) Remove the spiral cable with the combination switches attached from the steering column assembly. Refer to [Spiral Cable: Removal and Installation] Service and Repair.
2) Remove the instrument lower panel LH. Refer to [Instrument Lower Panel LH: Removal and Installation] Instrument Lower Panel LH.
3) Remove the steering column cover and ignition key finisher. Refer to [Steering Column Covers: Removal and Installation] Steering Column Covers: Removal and Installation.
4) Remove the lower knee protector. Refer to [Instrument Panel Assembly: Removal and Installation] Instrument Panel Assembly: Removal and Installation.
5) Disconnect key interlock from steering column (if equipped). Refer to [Key Interlock Cable: Removal and Installation] Key Interlock Cable Removal and Installation.
6) Remove the lock nut and bolt from the upper joint, then separate the upper joint from the upper shaft.
CAUTION:
- Do not reuse the lock nut.
7) Remove the three nuts and bolt from the steering column assembly, then remove the steering column assembly from the steering member.
8) Remove the bolt from the lower joint of the lower joint shaft, then remove the lower joint shaft from the vehicle.
CAUTION:
- Do not damage the lower joint.
Inspection after Removal
- Check for damage to the steering column jacket tube. If damage is found, replace the steering column with a new one.
CAUTION:
- Do not exert any axial load or impact to the steering column.
- Replace the column if it is depleted of grease, worn, damaged, or if any scratches or coating separation is present on the shaft seal area.
- If the vehicle has been in a collision, or if noises are heard coming from the steering column, check column length. If out of specification, replace the steering column as an assembly.
Steering Wheel and Column
Installation
Installation is in the reverse order of removal.
CAUTION:
When installing the steering column, finger-tighten all of the lower bracket and joint bolts; then tighten them to specification. Do not apply undue stress to the steering column.
NOTE:
- With the wheels in the straight ahead position, align the slit of the lower joint with the projection on the dust cover. Insert the joint until surface (A) contacts surface (B).
- After installation, inspect the steering column for proper operation.
Inspection after Installation
- Check the tilt device for proper tilt range.
Steering Wheel and Column
- Check that the steering wheel turns smoothly to the left and right locks.
- Check that the number of turns are the same from the straight-forward position to the left and right locks.
- Check that the steering wheel is in the neutral position when driving straight ahead.