Steering Column Coupling: Removal

NOTE: DO NOT hammer, pry or force steering column and column shafts during installation or removal. Failure to follow this instruction may cause damage to steering components that could lead to loss of steering control during vehicle operation and could result in serious personal injury or death.

NOTE: DO NOT attempt to remove or install the steering column lower u-joint at the steering gear without first loosening the steering column dash seal and fasteners. Failure to follow this instruction may cause damage to steering components that could lead to loss of steering control during vehicle operation and could result in serious personal injury or death.

NOTE: Do not allow the steering column to rotate while the steering column shaft system is disconnected or damage to the steering column electrical components may result.

NOTE: LHD shown, RHD similar.

With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to: Jacking and Lifting - Overview
NOTE: Use a steering wheel holding device (such as Hunter® 28-75-1 or equivalent).

Keep the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position. Use the General Equipment: Steering Wheel Holder

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NOTE: Make sure to minimize damage to the sealer foam and avoid pulling apart dash seal brackets from retainer pins. Excessive damage may allow engine noise, fumes, air or water to enter the passenger compartment.

Loosen the dash seal.
1. Remove the nuts.
  Torque: 80 lb.in (9 Nm)
2. Loosen the dash seal.
3. Hand start the nuts.
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Detach the steering column lower shaft from the coupling.
1. NOTE: Do not reuse steering column shaft bolts. This may result in fastener failure and steering column shaft detachment or loss of steering control. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious injury to vehicle occupant(s).
  
  NOTE: Vehicles equipped with LHD.
  
  Remove and discard the bolt.
  
  Torque: 22 lb.ft (30 Nm)
2. NOTE: Vehicles equipped with RHD.
  
  Remove and discard the bolt.
  
  Torque: 35 lb.ft (47.5 Nm)
3. Pull apart the steering column lower shaft from the coupling.
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Remove and discard the bolt. Pull apart the coupling from the steering gear.
Torque: 22 lb.ft (30 Nm)

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