Steering Column: Description and Operation
COLUMNDESCRIPTION
The steering column mounted to the underside of the instrument panel is a tilt type (Fig. 1). It has been designed to be serviced only as an assembly if it is determined to be defective. These replaceable components mounted on the steering column can be serviced without removal of the steering column from the vehicle:
^ key cylinder
^ lock cylinder trim ring
^ ignition switch
^ multi-function switch
^ clockspring
^ SKIM module
^ trim shrouds, and
^ steering wheel
The steering column intermediate shaft can also be serviced separately from the steering column.
The speed control switches and driver airbag mounted on the steering wheel are also serviced separately.
OPERATION
Turning of the steering wheel is transferred through the steering column and intermediate shaft, to the power steering gear pinion shaft. The gear then moves the steering knuckles, steering the vehicle.
The steering column used on vehicles equipped with a manual transaxle has an anti-theft provision. With the key/lock cylinder turned to the LOCK position, and the key removed, the steering shaft (and steering wheel) cannot be turned more than 180 degrees from center before locking. Vehicles equipped with an automatic transaxle do not have this feature.