GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Inspection Procedure

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Object Number: 303713  Size: SH
  • Vehicles involved in accidents resulting in frame damage, major body or sheet metal damage, or where the steering column has been impacted, or where supplemental inflatable restraint systems deployed may also have a damaged or misaligned steering column.
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  • Check the capsules on the steering column bracket assembly. All capsules must be securely seated in the bracket slots and checked for any loose conditions when pushed or pulled by hand.
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  • Observe how the bracket is attached to the jacket assembly.
  •    - If the capsules are not securely seated and the bracket is bolted to the jacket assembly, replace only the bracket.
       - If the capsules are not securely seated and the bracket is welded to the jacket assembly, replace only the jacket assembly.
       • 
    Object Number: 355072  Size: SH
  • Check for jacket assembly collapse by measuring the distance from the lower edge of the upper jacket to a defined point on the lower jacket. Replace the jacket assembly if the measured dimensions are not within specifications.
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    Object Number: 355070  Size: SH
  • Visually inspect the shift tube for sheared injected plastic.
  • If the shift tube shows sheared plastic, a new shift tube must be installed.

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  • Check operation of the shift lever. If the lever moves to the park position without pulling towards the operator, the upper shift tube plastic bearing may be broken.
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    Object Number: 303724  Size: SH
  • Visually inspect steering shaft for sheared injected plastic. If steering shaft shows sheared plastic, replace the steering shaft.
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  • Any frame damage that could cause a bent steering shaft must have the steering shaft runout checked. Using a dial indicator (1) at the lower end of the steering shaft, rotate the steering wheel. The runout must not exceed 1.59 mm (0.0625 in).