Vehicles involved in accidents resulting in frame damage, major
body or sheet metal damage, or where the steering column has been impacted,
or where the supplemental inflatable restraint system deployed may also have
a damaged or misaligned steering column.
•
Inspect the steering column (4)
and the upper steering shaft for the following conditions. Replace the steering
column if necessary. Refer to
Steering Column Replacement
.
-
Damage
-
Cracks
-
Deformation
-
Excessive play
-
Excessive rotational resistance
•
Measure the length of the steering column
assembly (1).
Measurement The length of the steering column assembly should be 894.2-895.8 mm
(35.21-35.27 in).
Verify that 2 capsules (1)
are securely attached to the steering column bracket (2). Verify that
no clearance exists between these capsules and the steering column bracket.
If the capsules are loose or if clearance exists, replace the steering
column. Refer to
Steering Column Replacement
.
•
Inspect 2 plates (3) for any damage. If the plates
are damaged, replace the steering column. Refer to
Steering Column Replacement
.
•
Inspect the steering shaft coupling (1)
for the following conditions. Replace the steering shaft coupling if necessary.
Refer to
Steering Shaft Coupling Replacement
.
-
Damage
-
Cracks
-
Looseness
•
Inspect the lower steering shaft (2) for the following
conditions. Replace the lower steering shaft if necessary. Refer to
Lower Steering Shaft Assembly Replacement
.
-
Damage
-
Cracks
-
Malfunction
-
Excessive play
-
Excessive rotational resistance
•
Inspect the steering column lower seal (1)
for breakage or for deformation. In order to replace a defective seal, refer
to
Steering Column Replacement
.