GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 42640 Steering Column Anti Rotation Pin

Removal Procedure

    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.

    Notice: Once the steering column is removed from the car, the column is extremely susceptible to damage. Dropping the column on its end could collapse the steering shaft or loosen the plastic injections which maintain column rigidity. Leaning on the column could cause the jacket to bend or deform. Any of the above damage could impair the column's collapsible design. If it is necessary to remove the steering wheel, use only the specified steering wheel puller. Under no conditions should the end of the shaft be hammered upon as hammering could loosen plastic injections which maintain column rigidity.

    Notice: The steering column should never be supported only by the lower support bracket. Damage to the lower support could result.

    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.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Caution: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:

       • Air bag deployment
       • Personal injury
       • Unnecessary SIR system repairs
    In order to avoid the above conditions, observe the following guidelines:
       • Refer to SIR Component Views in order to determine if you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring.
       • If you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System.

  3. Disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System in SIR.

  4. Object Number: 333146  Size: SH
  5. Insert J 42640 into the steering column access hole in order to lock the steering column. This will maintain the correct orientation.
  6. Remove the steering wheel. Refer to Steering Wheel Replacement .
  7. Remove the steering column bracket. Refer to Steering Column Bracket Replacement in Instrument Panel, Gages and Console.

  8. Object Number: 141932  Size: SH
  9. Disconnect the steering column wiring harness connector from the main body wiring harness.
  10. Position the seal as needed
  11. Remove the pinch bolt (2) from the upper intermediate shaft.
  12. Important: Stabilize the studs in order to remove the nuts securing the steering column to the instrument panel.

  13. Support the column.

  14. Object Number: 800069  Size: SH
  15. Position a 13-mm crowfoot wrench onto one of the nuts which secures the steering column to the I/P.
  16. While holding the stud in position with a #7 inverted TORX® socket, remove the nut.
  17. Repeat the above steps for each nut.
  18. Important: Discard the clips at the upper steering column support, if equipped. These clips are for assembly plant usage only.

  19. Remove the steering column from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

  1. Position the steering column through the seal and onto the intermediate steering shaft.

  2. Object Number: 627270  Size: SH
  3. Support the column. Install the nuts on the support bracket studs.

  4. Object Number: 141932  Size: SH

    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.

  5. Install the pinch bolt (2) to the upper intermediate shaft.
  6. Tighten

        • Tighten the bolt to 47 N·m (35 lb ft).
        • Tighten the nuts to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).
  7. Move the intermediate steering shaft seal into position.
  8. Connect the steering column wiring harness connector to the main body wiring harness.
  9. Install the steering column bracket. Refer to Steering Column Bracket Replacement in Instrument Panel, Gages, and Console.
  10. Install the steering wheel. Refer to Steering Wheel Replacement .
  11. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System in SIR.

  12. Object Number: 333146  Size: SH
  13. Remove J 42640 from the steering column.
  14. Connect the negative battery cable.
  15. Inspect the steering for proper operation.