GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 42640 Steering Column Anti-Rotation Pin

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 333146  Size: SH

    Notice: The wheels of the vehicle must be straight ahead and the steering column in the LOCK position before disconnecting the steering column or intermediate shaft from the steering gear. Failure to do so will cause the SIR coil assembly to become uncentered, which may cause damage to the coil assembly.

  1. Install the J 42640 in the steering column lower access hole.

  2. Object Number: 362505  Size: SH
  3. Set the front wheels in the straight-ahead position.
  4. Set the steering wheel in the locked position.
  5. Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  6. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  7. Disable the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System in SIR.
  8. Remove the knee bolster. Refer to Knee Bolster Replacement in Instrument Panel, Gauges and Console.
  9. Disconnect the transmission control cable from the column.
  10. Disconnect the steering column harness at the connectors.
  11. Remove the body control module bracket. Do not disconnect the harness from the body control module. Refer to Body Control Module Replacement in Body Control System.
  12. Disconnect the SIR connector position assurance (CPA) from the rear of the body control module bracket.
  13. Remove the bolt from the upper to the lower shaft connection.

  14. Object Number: 374713  Size: SH
  15. Remove the nuts from the upper and the lower support brackets.
  16. Important: When the steering column is removed from the vehicle, actions such as a sharp blow on the end of the steering shaft or shift lever, leaning on the column assembly, or dropping the assembly could shear or loosen the plastic fasteners that maintain column rigidity.

  17. Insert J 42640 anti rotation pin in Steering Column.
  18. Lower the steering column.
  19. Remove the steering column from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 374713  Size: SH
  1. Install the steering column to the vehicle.
  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 nuts to lower support bracket first, then upper brackets.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).


    Object Number: 362505  Size: SH
  5. Install the bolt to the upper and the lower shaft connection.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 50 N·m (37 lb ft).

  7. Connect the SIR connector position assurance (CPA). Attach the CPA to the rear of the body control module bracket.
  8. Install the body control module bracket. Refer to Body Control Module Replacement in Body Control System.
  9. Connect the steering column harness to the connectors.
  10. Connect the transmission control cable to the column.
  11. Install the knee bolster. Refer to Knee Bolster Replacement in Instrument Panel, Gauges, and Console.
  12. Enable the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System in SIR.
  13. Connect the negative battery cable.
  14. Perform the Idle Learn Procedure for 4.8L, 5.3L and 6.0L engines only. Refer to PCM Idle Learn Procedure in Engine Controls-4.8L, 5.3L and 6.0L.


    Object Number: 333146  Size: SH
  15. Remove the J 42640 from the steering column lower access hole.