Steering Column Removal and Installation

Fig.9 Exploded View Of Steering Column -- Standard Column:

Fig.10 Exploded View Of Steering Column -- Tilt Column:

1. Disconnect and isolate battery ground cable, then ensure front wheels are directed straight ahead.
2. Remove steering column cover trim panel and cover liner from lower instrument panel, then remove steering wheel trim covers and, if necessary, speed control switches from steering wheel.
3. Remove two bolts securing air bag module to steering wheel then lift module carefully from center of steering wheel and disconnect clockspring electrical connector from rear of module.

Fig.11 Airbag Module Mounting Bolt Location:

4. Disconnect clockspring electrical connectors from horn switches, then remove steering wheel retaining nut and dampener weight.
5. Install steering wheel puller tool No. C-3428-B, or equivalent, upon steering wheel, then tighten tool center bolt until wheel can be slid from steering shaft. Do not hammer on tool or steering wheel during removal.
6. Place key lock cylinder in On position, then use a small screwdriver or other suitable tool to depress lock cylinder retaining tab through tab access hole.

Fig.12 Ignition Key Lock Cylinder Retaining Tab Access Hole Location:

7. Remove key lock cylinder assembly from steering column, then remove steering column lower shroud.
8. Tilt steering column to lowest position and remove upper shroud, then slip retaining pin out of upper to lower column pinch bolt.
9. Remove pinch bolt nut, separate upper and lower coupler shafts. Pinch bolt cannot be removed from coupler assembly.
10. Remove through bolt from lower steering column bearing housing and mounting bracket, then remove upper steering column assembly batwing bracket bolts.
11. Lower steering column in instrument panel access opening, then disconnect wiring harness at wiper and multi-function switches and disengage from clips.
12. Remove wiring harness connectors from ignition switch and clockspring, then lift steering column assembly out of vehicle through driver's door.
13. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. Torque upper steering column bracket to support bolts to 9 ft. lbs.
b. Torque pinch bolt nut to 21 ft. lbs. and ensure its retaining pin is installed.
c. Torque steering wheel retaining nut to 45 ft. lbs.
d. Use only original or correct replacement bolts when installing air bag module. Torque bolts to 7-8 ft. lbs.