Steering Column - Installation

STEERING COLUMN

1. If the steering column is being replaced, assemble components on the steering column as necessary before column installation. Assembly

NOTE: When installing a tilt column, do not release the tilt lever from the locked position until after the column is installed on the instrument panel.





2. Install the steering column (1) through the opening in the lower instrument panel.
3. Raise the column (1) onto the mounting studs and install the four mounting nuts (2) on the studs. Starting with the left lower (forward) nut and proceeding in a clockwise tightening sequence, tighten all four mounting nuts to 28 Nm (21 ft. lbs.).




4. If the vehicle is equipped with an automatic transaxle, connect the ignition shift interlock cable to the steering column by inserting the cable connector (3) into the lock cylinder housing until it snaps into place. Make sure the connector is locked in place.




5. Verify the front wheels of vehicle are in the STRAIGHT-AHEAD position.

NOTE: Do not tighten the coupling pinch bolt anytime the vehicle is not at curb riding height. It may cause unwanted conditions within the steering column if the vehicle is suspended in any manner when the pinch bolt is tightened.

6. Rotate the steering column shaft until the upper coupling (2) lines up with the rounded side of the lower coupling (3).
7. Slide the upper coupling (2) over the end of the lower coupling (3) and install the pinch bolt (1). Tighten the pinch bolt nut to 28 Nm (250 in. lbs.).
8. Install the pinch bolt retainer clip (4).




9. Connect the wiring harness connector (2) to the ignition switch (1).




10. Connect the wiring harness connector (4) to the SKREEM/WCM (3).




11. Connect the wiring harness connectors (2) to the Steering Column Control Module (SCCM) (1).




12. Push the tilt lever (5) downward.
13. Install the lower shroud (2) over the tilt lever and onto the column.
14. Position the column tilt (5) at the full-upward position.
15. Push the tilt lever (5) upward, locking it in place.
16. Install the screw (3) attaching the lower shroud (2) to the steering column (6).
17. Position the column tilt at the full-downward position and lock it in place.
18. Install the upper shroud over the lower shroud, clipping the shrouds to one another.
19. Install the two screws (4) attaching the upper shroud (1) to the lower shroud (2).




20. Position the lower tab of the steering column cover reinforcement (1) behind the tab (4) of the inflatable knee blocker and rotate the top of the reinforcement up to the instrument panel. Install all three mounting screws (2, 3) fastening the steering column cover reinforcement (1) in place. Tighten the screws to 2 Nm (20 in. lbs.).




21. Position the column tilt at the full-upward position.
22. Align the three lower tabs (3) on the lower steering column cover (1) with the retainer holes in the reinforcement. Push the bottom of the cover into the reinforcement until the tabs fully engage the reinforcement hooks, then push in on the top of the cover snapping the spring loaded clips (2) to the instrument panel.

CAUTION: When installing the steering wheel, the clockspring must be centered in its travel to avoid overextending the clockspring inner parts, causing the clockspring to become inoperative. If removed and handled properly using the correct procedures, it should be in the "centered" position. If there is any question as to whether the clockspring is in the "centered" position of travel, perform the clockspring centering procedure before proceeding. Service and Repair





23. Feed the airbag wiring leads (1) through the upper hole (2) in the steering wheel (3). Align the steering wheel's wide mounting spline with the steering column shaft missing spline area and push the wheel onto the shaft. Make sure the clockspring lines up with the back of the wheel and does not bind.
24. Install the steering wheel retaining bolt and tighten it until the steering wheel is fully installed on shaft. Tighten the steering wheel retaining bolt to 50 Nm (37 ft. lbs.).




25. Connect the horn wiring connector to the clockspring (1).




26. Install the driver airbag. Driver Airbag - Installation

WARNING: Do not connect the battery ground cable without following the proper procedure as indicated in the following step. Personal injury or death may result if the Airbag System Test is not performed first.

27. Reconnect the battery ground terminal following the Airbag System Test found in Restraints.
28. Test the operation of the all column mounted components. If applicable, reset the radio and the clock as necessary.
29. Road test the vehicle to ensure proper operation of the steering system.