GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Inspection Procedure

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  • 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.
  •    • 
    Object Number: 464282  Size: SH
  • 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
       • 
    Object Number: 464234  Size: SH
  • 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).

  • Replace a column assembly that is shorter than the specified length. Refer to Steering Column Replacement .
  •    • 
    Object Number: 464230  Size: SH
  • 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 .
  •    • 
    Object Number: 464310  Size: SH
  • 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
       • 
    Object Number: 464240  Size: SH
  • Inspect the steering column lower seal (1) for breakage or for deformation. In order to replace a defective seal, refer to Steering Column Replacement .