Steering Column - Removal and Installation

Fig. 8 Steering Column Replacement:

REMOVAL
Wheels must be in a straight forward position and the key must be in the Lock position when removing or installing column to ensure proper alignment of components during installation.
1. Remove inflator module as outlined in Air Bag. Refer to Air Bags and Seat Belts/Air Bags(SRS).
2. Remove stop lamp switch.
3. Remove upper intermediate shaft to steering column attaching nut and bolt from pot joint coupling, Fig. 8.
4. Disconnect shift linkage from steering column.
5. If steering column is to be replaced or serviced, remove steering wheel.
6. Remove steering column opening filler, then the driver side knee bolster and deflector.
7. Remove toe plate to cowl attaching bolts, then the shift indicator cable.
8. Disconnect electrical connectors from column, then remove column support bracket to instrument panel carrier capsule nuts. If shims are used, retain for use in installation.
9. Remove steering column from vehicle.

INSTALLATION
If a service replacement column is being installed, do not remove anti-rotation pin until after steering column has been connected to steering gear. Removing pin before column is installed or connected will damage SIR coil assembly.
1. Carefully place column into position in vehicle.
2. Raise column and loosely install capsule nuts. Install shims, if equipped.
3. Torque capsule nuts to 20 lb ft
4. Install upper intermediate shaft to steering column shaft attaching nut and bolt to pot joint, torque to 40 lb ft
5. Connect shift linkage to steering column.
6. Install toe plate attaching bolts and torque to 58 lb in
7. Connect electrical connectors to column.
8. If a service replacement steering column is being installed, remove anti-rotation pin.
9. Install shift indicator cable clip to steering column and adjust shift indicator as necessary.
10. Install driver knee bolster and deflector, then the steering column opening filler.
11. If a service replacement steering column is being installed, remove hexagon locking nut, then the coil assembly shipping cover and disengage connector from cover.
12. Replace steering wheel if removed.
13. Connect battery ground cable.
14. Install stop lamp switch, adjust as necessary.