Removal Procedure
- Disable the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) System. Refer to SIR Disabling and Enabling .
- Lock the steering column through the access hole in the lower steering column trim cover using anti-rotation pin J 42640 . See Special Tools .
- Remove the driver knee bolster bracket. Refer to Driver Knee Bolster Bracket Replacement (Left Hand Drive) or Driver Knee Bolster Bracket Replacement (Right Hand Drive) .
- Remove the upper intermediate steering shaft bolt at the steering column. Refer to Upper Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement .
- Disconnect any electrical connectors as needed.
- Remove the steering column bolts.
- Remove the steering column from the vehicle.
- Transfer any parts as needed.
CAUTION:
Refer to SIR Caution
.
NOTE:
Once the steering column is removed from the vehicle, the column is extremely susceptible to damage. Dropping the column assembly on the end could collapse the steering shaft or loosen the plastic injections, which maintain column rigidity. Leaning on the column assembly could cause the jacket to bend or deform. Any of the above damage could impair the columns collapsible design. Do NOT hammer on the end of the shaft, because hammering could loosen the plastic injections, which maintain column rigidity. If you need to remove the steering wheel, refer to Steering Wheel Replacement .
NOTE:
The front wheels of the vehicle must be maintained in the straight ahead position and the steering column must be in the LOCK position before disconnecting the steering column or intermediate shaft. Failure to follow these procedures will cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in damage to the SIR coil assembly.