Steering System: Column: Installation: Installation

Fig 1: Steering Column Nuts & Assembly

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

WARNING: Before servicing the steering column the airbag system must be disarmed. Refer to ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSTICS for service procedures. Failure to do so may result in accidental deployment of the airbag and possible personal injury.

CAUTION: All fasteners must be torqued to specification to ensure proper operation of the steering column.

1. Position the steering column (2) on the dash panel support (1) and loosely install the mounting nuts (3).
2. Firmly slide the steering column (2) upward against the studs (1) in dash panel and hand tighten the nuts (3).
3. Install the steering shaft coupler on the steering shaft and loosely install a new  bolt.
   NOTE: Torque the upper left nut first then the lower right nut. Then torque the lower left nut then the upper right nut.
4. Center steering column (2) in dash opening and tighten mounting nuts (3) to 28 N.m (250 in. lbs.).
   NOTE: A new bolt must be used for reinstallation.
5. Tighten the coupler bolt to 38 N.m (28 ft. lbs.).
   Fig 2: Identifying Steering Column Shrouds

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6. Install a new brake light switch (5). Refer to Electrical - Lamps and Lighting/Lamps/Lighting - Exterior/SWITCH, Stop Lamp - Removal .
7. Install the shifter cable. Refer to Transmission and Transfer Case/Automatic - 42RLE/CABLE, Shift - Installation .
   Fig 3: Locating Steering Column Wiring & Fasteners

   Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
8. Connect the wiring harness (1) to the column (2).
9. Install the SKIM module.
10. Install the clockspring. Refer to Restraints/CLOCKSPRING - Removal .
    Fig 4: Identifying Steering Column Shrouds

    Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
11. Install the shrouds (1 and 3).
    Fig 5: Locating Steering Column Opening Reinforcement & Bolts

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12. Install the steering column opening reinforcement (1).
    Fig 6: Locating Steering Column Opening Cover

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13. Install the steering column opening cover (2). Refer to Body/Instrument Panel/COVER, Steering Column Opening - Installation .
    Fig 7: Steering Wheel & Column

    Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC
14. Align the spline on the steering wheel hub to shaft (4).
15. Then install the steering wheel (1) and install a new  bolt (2). Tighten the bolt to 61 N.m (45 ft. lbs.).
16. Install the airbag. Refer to Restraints/AIR BAG, Driver - Installation .
17. Install the tilt lever handle.
18. Install the negative battery terminal.
19. Test the operation of the horn, Electronic PRNDL Indicator, lights and any other functions that are steering column operated.