Steering - Column Popping Noise

Group Ref.: Steering/Suspension

Bulletin No.: 333210A

Date: December, 1993

SUBJECT:
STEERING COLUMN POPPING NOISE (REPLACE UPPER BEARING INNER RACE SEAT)

MODELS:
1992-93 PASSENGER CARS EXCEPT CHEVROLET CAVALIER, GEO AND PONTIAC LEMANS
1992-93 LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS EXCEPT GEO TRACKER

This bulletin is being re-published to add the labor time for Labor Operation Number E7310.

Vehicles affected have TILT steering columns (round style) with the exception of the "W" series (square style).

CONDITION:

Some owners of vehicles with integral TILT steering columns may hear a pop noise when turning. The noise occurs specifically when the driver is making normal steering turns in either direction and generally when the steering wheel is returning to center.

CAUSE:

The upper bearing inner race seat under certain conditions may cause a pop noise. The part may have a burr on the inside skirt.

CORRECTION:

To verify that the upper bearing inner race seat is the cause of the pop noise in the steering column, use the following method:

1. Engage the park brake and start the engine.

2. Point the wheels of the vehicle straight ahead.

3. While listening for a pop noise, rotate the steering wheel in either direction to the wheel stop. Slowly return the wheel back to center. If the noise is not heard, drive the vehicle at a slow speed listening for the noise to occur.

Important:
When the steering column is warm, the pop noise will be more audible.

4. If a pop noise is heard, replace the upper bearing inner race seat with P/N 7815184. Return the steering wheel back to center with the wheels of the vehicle pointed straight ahead. Turn the ignition lock cylinder to "LOCK" position and then begin the repair. Refer to Section 3F5A/3F5B in the Service Manual to replace the upper bearing inner race seat.

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

Labor Operation Number: E7310

Labor Time: 0.6 hrs.

For GMC Truck ONLY, use: T7681

Labor Time: 0.4 hrs. (With SIR add .2 hrs.)