GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Assembly Procedure

Tools Required

J 41688 Centering Sphere Installer


    Object Number: 299877  Size: SH
  1. Install the steering column support assembly (1) to the steering column jacket assembly (3).
  2. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the 4 TORX® screws (2).
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the 4 TORX® screws (2) to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).


    Object Number: 299879  Size: SH
  5. Install the centering sphere (1) and the joint preload spring (2) using J 41688 .
  6. Lubricate the centering sphere (1) with lithium grease.

  7. Object Number: 299881  Size: SH
  8. Compress the centering sphere and joint preload spring.
  9. Rotate the driver clockwise 90 degrees until the arms lock in place.

  10. Object Number: 299885  Size: SH
  11. Install the race and upper shaft assembly (1).
  12. Rotate the race and upper shaft assembly 90 degrees.

  13. Object Number: 299887  Size: SH
  14. Remove the race and upper shaft assembly andJ 41688 from the vise.
  15. Remove the race and upper shaft assembly with the centering sphere fromJ 41688 .

  16. Object Number: 299888  Size: SH
  17. Apply lithium grease to the race and upper shaft assembly (1).
  18. Install the lower steering shaft assembly (2) to the race and upper shaft assembly (1).

  19. Object Number: 299889  Size: SH
  20. Align the marks on the upper steering shaft assembly with the marks on the lower steering shaft assembly.
  21. Install the lower steering shaft assembly to the centering sphere within the upper steering shaft assembly.

  22. Object Number: 306326  Size: SH
  23. Install the steering column tilt head assembly (1) to the steering column jacket assembly (4).
  24. Stake the pivot pin locations (2).

  25. Object Number: 306304  Size: SH
  26. Install the turn signal and multifunction switch assembly (2).
  27. Install the 2 pan head tapping screws (1).
  28. Tighten
    Tighten the 2 pan head tapping screws (1) to 10 N·m (89 lb in).


    Object Number: 306306  Size: SH
  29. Install the adapter and bearing assembly (2) onto the steering column jacket assembly (1).

  30. Object Number: 306234  Size: SH
  31. Slide the 2 turn signal and multifunction switch assembly connectors (2) into the ignition and key alarm switch assembly connector (1).

  32. Object Number: 306331  Size: SH
  33. Route the wire harness assembly (1) around the steering column.
  34. Install the wire harness assembly (1) into the wire harness strap (2).

  35. Object Number: 306338  Size: SH
  36. Install the 2 wire harness straps (2).
  37. Install the wire harness strap (2) into the steering column tilt head assembly (1).
  38. Install the tilt spring. Refer to Tilt Spring - Assemble - Off Vehicle .
  39. Install the lock module assembly. Refer to Electronic Column Lock Module - Assemble - Off Vehicle .