Removal/Installation

Fig. 6 Exploded View Of Acustar Steering Column Assembly FWD W/Acustar Tilt Steering Column:

NOTE: The Acustar steering column is designed to be serviced as an assembly, less wiring, switches, shrouds and steering wheel. Most components on this steering column can be serviced without removing the column from the vehicle.

1. Disarm airbag system, refer to Air Bags and Seat Belts/Air Bags (Supplemental Restraint Systems)/Service and Repair.
2. Aim front wheels straight ahead.
3. Disconnect battery ground cable.
4. On models with column shift, disconnect link rod by prying it out of grommet in shift lever.
5. On models less airbag, remove steering wheel center pad.
6. On models with airbag, remove airbag, refer to Air Bags and Seat Belts/Air Bags (Supplemental Restraint Systems).
7. On all models, disconnect electrical components.
8. Remove steering wheel nut and steering wheel using puller tool No. C-3228-B or equivalent.
CAUTION: Do not bump or hammer on steering column shaft to remove wheel.
9. Remove upper coupling retaining pin.
10. Remove nut and bolt from upper coupling then separate the upper coupling from the lower coupling.
11. On models with column shift, place shift lever in Low 1 position and remove PRNDL driver cable. Place shift lever in Park position.

PRNDL Cable Replacement:

12. On models with tilt steering, remove tilt lever.
13. On all models, remove upper and lower lock housing shrouds.
14. Remove lower fixed shroud Torx head screws and shroud.
15. Remove turn signal multi-function switch.
16. remove electrical connections from key-in light, main ignition switch, horn and/or airbag clock spring. On models with airbag, remove clock spring electrical connections, refer to BODY ELECTRICAL SAFETY AND ENTERTAINMENT/PASSIVE RESTRAINTS, AIR BAG.
17. Loosen upper support bracket nuts then remove upper fixed shroud.
18. Remove wiring harness by prying out plastic retainer buttons.
19. Remove lower dash panel and support bracket standoff fasteners.
20. Remove column through passenger compartment.
21. Reverse procedure to install, noting the following:
a. On models with column shift, replace shift rod grommet.
b. On all models, ensure ground clip on left capsule slot is in place.
c. Be sure to install upper coupling bolt retainer pin.
d. Ensure breakaway capsules are fully seated in slots in column bracket then torque bracket nuts to 105 lb-in.
e. Torque steering wheel nut to 45 lb-ft.
CAUTION: Do not force steering wheel on column shaft by striking wheel with a heavy object. Use retaining nut.