STEERING COLUMN LOCK MECHANISM (OPERATION DESCRIBED)

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1988-1989 W BODY

The steering column lock mechanism on 1988 and 1989 "W" body vehicles functions somewhat differently than those on most other General Motors models. Instead of locking at any position after a relatively small amount of steering wheel movement, the 'W' body column lock mechanism operates somewhat like a ratcheting wrench with only two 'click' points as follows:

- The steering wheel can be turned to the right no more than 180 degrees (1/2 turn) before hitting a lock stop.

- The steering wheel can be turned fully to the left, but will ratchet past a 'click' point, or lock stop, every 180 degrees (1/2 turn). This will keep the wheel from being turned back to the right more than 1/2 turn from any given position.

- When the steering wheel is turned all the way to the left, the lock mechanism will limit the steering wheel to a small amount of travel back to the right, like those of other General Motors models.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.