Steering Column

If the steering column is being replaced, assemble components on the steering column as necessary before column installation. Refer to COLUMN, ASSEMBLY .

Fig 1: Column Mounting
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

NOTE:
When installing a tilt column, do not release the tilt lever from the locked position until after the column is installed on the instrument panel.
Install the steering column through the steering column opening.
Raise the column onto the mounting studs and install the three mounting nuts (1) on the studs and the one bolt (2).

Fig 2: Column Tightening Sequence
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

NOTE:
When tightening the fasteners in the following step, make sure there is no gap between the column flange and the instrument panel support at bolt (4).
Starting with the left upper nut and proceeding in a clockwise tightening sequence ending at the bolt (left lower), tighten all four mounting fasteners to 28 N.m (21 ft. lbs.).

Fig 3: Lower Coupling Bolt
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Verify the front wheels of vehicle are in the STRAIGHT-AHEAD position.
Collapse the intermediate shaft (2). Center it over the steering gear pinion shaft (4), lining up the ends, then slide the intermediate shaft onto the steering gear pinion shaft. Do not install the intermediate shaft coupling bolt (3) at this time. The bolt can be more easily installed in a later step.

Fig 4: Steering Column Control Module Connectors
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Connect the wiring harness connectors (2) to the Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) (1).
Connect any other the wiring harness connectors.

Fig 5: Clutch Pedal Blocker
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If equipped, Install the clutch pedal blocker (1) using three mounting screws.

Fig 6: Tilt Lever & Lower Shroud Mounting Screws
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Push the tilt lever (2) downward (released position).
Install the lower shroud (2) over the tilt lever and onto the column.
Install the upper shroud onto the lower shroud, clipping the shrouds to one another.
Install the three screws (1) attaching the lower shroud to the steering column.
Position the column tilt (5) at the full-upward position.
Push the tilt lever upward, locking the column in place.

Fig 7: Air Bag Removal/Installation
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC

CAUTION:
When installing the steering wheel, the clockspring must be centered in its travel to avoid overextending the clockspring inner parts, causing the clockspring to become inoperative. If removed and handled properly using the correct procedures, it should be in the "centered" position. If there is any question as to whether the clockspring is in the "centered" position of travel, perform the clockspring centering procedure before proceeding. Refer to CLOCKSPRING, STANDARD PROCEDURE .

NOTE:
Do not reuse the old steering wheel bolt, a new bolt must be used every time.
Install the steering wheel (2) and a NEW retaining bolt (4). Tighten the steering wheel retaining bolt to 50 N.m (37 ft. lbs.). Refer to WHEEL, STEERING, INSTALLATION .

Fig 8: Steering Wheel Wiring
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Connect the wiring connector (2) at the clockspring.

Fig 9: Air Bag Removal/Installation
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Install the driver airbag (3). Refer to AIR BAG, DRIVER, INSTALLATION .

Fig 10: Lower Coupling Bolt
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
From center, rotate the steering wheel to the right approximately 90° or until the shaft coupling pinch bolt (3) can be easily installed.
Install the intermediate shaft coupling bolt (3). Tighten the bolt to 42 N.m (31 ft. lbs.).
Reposition the floor carpet (1) in place.
Straighten the steering wheel to STRAIGHT-AHEAD position.
WARNING:
Do not connect the battery ground cable without following the proper procedure as indicated in the following step. Personal injury or death may result if the Airbag System Test is not performed first.
Reconnect the battery ground terminal following the Airbag System Test found in Restraints. Refer to DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING .

Fig 11: Slide Tabs, Mounting Bracket & Shaft Lock Module
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
If the steering column being installed requires the installation of a shaft lock module, perform the following:
1. If not present, insert the ignition key into the ignition lock cylinder. This will move the shaft lock module locking bolt to the unlocked position. Leave the key in the lock cylinder while the shaft lock module service is being completed.
2. Make sure the wiring harness connector is properly connected to the module.
3. Align the engagement and slide tabs (2) on the shaft lock module housing (1) with the slots and channels in the mounting bracket (3) on the steering column.
4. Carefully slide the module toward the top (steering wheel end) of the column until it is in mounted position and the spring clips on the module have engaged the bracket, locking it in place.
NOTE:
If a NEW module has been installed, a NEW SKREEM (WCM) must also be installed, then a diagnostic scan tool MUST be used to initialize the new module before the vehicle can be operated. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE .

Fig 12: Steering Column Cover Reinforcement Mounting Screws
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Install the steering column cover reinforcement (1) using the four mounting screws (2).
Install the steering column opening cover. Refer to COVER, STEERING COLUMN OPENING, INSTALLATION .
Test the operation of the all column mounted components. If applicable, reset the radio and the clock as necessary.
Road test the vehicle to ensure proper operation of the steering system.