Clunk/Rattle Noise From Lower Steering Column Area When Traveling Over Road Bumps (Replace Lower Steering Shaft Bearing Assembly)

Some customers may comment on a clunking or rattling noise from the lower steering column area that may be heard in the passenger compartment as the vehicle travels over bumps in the road.

This condition may be due to clearance between the steering shaft and the inner race of the lower steering column shaft bearing.

Replace the existing lower steering column shaft bearing with P/N 26100500. Refer to the procedures in this bulletin and the Steering Column Replacement procedures in the Service Manual.

Tools Required

J 42640 Steering Column Anti-Rotation Pin

Caution: Refer to SIR Caution in Cautions and Notices of the Service Manual.

1. Remove the steering column assembly from the vehicle. Refer to Steering Column Replacement in the Steering Wheel and Column Tilt sub-section of the Service Manual.
2. Place the steering column on a clean flat surface.
3. Disconnect the intermediate shaft by removing the upper pinch bolt and nut.



4. Remove the steering shaft seal (1) and the steering shaft lower bearing retainer (2) together as one unit.
5. Remove the steering wheel position sensor assembly (3) by inserting a flat bladed tool between the sensor assembly and the steering shaft lower bearing (7) and pry gently.
6. Remove 2 lower spring retainers (4).
7. Remove the lower bearing spring (5).
8. Remove the lower bearing seat (6).
9. Remove the lower steering column shaft bearing (7).

1. Install a new steering shaft lower bearing assembly (4), P/N 26100500.
2. Install the steering wheel position sensor assembly (3).
3. Install the steering shaft seal (1) and the steering shaft lower bearing retainer (2) together as one unit.
4. Connect the intermediate shaft to the steering column. Install the upper pinch bolt and nut.

Tighten
Tighten the intermediate steering shaft upper pinch bolt to 47 N·m (35 lb ft).

5. Install the steering column assembly to the vehicle. Refer to Steering Column Replacement in the Steering Wheel and Column Tilt sub-section of the Service Manual.

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: