Steering Column Shaft - Intermediate

All vehicles

CAUTION: Do not allow the steering column shaft to rotate while the intermediate shaft is disconnected or damage to the clockspring may result. If there is evidence that the shaft has rotated, the clockspring must be removed and recentered. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM article.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to JACKING AND LIFTING article.
Place the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position and remove the ignition key.
Remove the steering column cover.
Remove the steering column shaft-to-steering column bolt.
- To install, tighten to 25 Nm (18 lb-ft).

Late build vehicles

Remove the 3 steering column shaft boot nuts.
- To install, tighten to 9 Nm (80 lb-in).

Early build vehicles

CAUTION: Make sure that the intermediate shaft boot bearing clamp is retained in the open position when removing and installing the clamp, boot bearing or boot assembly or damage to the boot may occur.

Release the steering column shaft boot bearing clamp from the intermediate shaft boot.
- Using a suitable tool, open the steering column shaft boot bearing clamp and release the boot from the intermediate shaft.
- Retain the steering column shaft boot bearing clamp in the open position.

All vehicles

Remove the steering column shaft-to-steering gear bolt.
- To install, tighten to 25 Nm (18 lb-ft).
Remove the steering column shaft.

CAUTION: For early build vehicles, make sure the end tabs of the intermediate shaft boot bearing clamp do not contact the boot after installation or damage to the boot may occur.

NOTE: For early build vehicles, make sure the intermediate shaft boot bearing is correctly seated in the retention groove before installing the intermediate shaft boot bearing clamp. The outer bearing race must not be seen protruding from the groove.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.