GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 1998 🢒 Firebird 🢒 Steering 🢒 Steering Wheel and Column - Tilt 🢒 Steering Shaft, Lower Bearing, and Jacket - Assemble - Off Vehicle

Assembly Procedure

Tools Required

J 23072 Shift Tube Remover


    Object Number: 390526 Size: SH
  1. Install the steering column shroud (2) to the steering column jacket assembly (3).
  2. Install the lock plate (1).

    3. Object Number: 390527 Size: SH
  3. Install the steering column housing support assembly (2).

    4. 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.

  4. Install the 4 support screws (1) to the steering column housing assembly (2).

    5. Tighten
    Tighten the 4 support screws to 9 N·m (80 lb in).

  5. Install the ignition switch assembly. Refer to Ignition Switch Assembly - Assemble - Off Vehicle .

    6. Object Number: 306318 Size: SH
  6. Lubricate the exposed area of the race and upper shaft assembly (1).
  7. Install the race and upper shaft assembly (1) to the lower steering shaft assembly (2).
  8. Align the mark on the race and upper shaft assembly (1) to the mark on the lower steering shaft assembly (2).
  9. Tilt the race and upper shaft assembly (1) 90 degrees to the lower steering shaft assembly (2) to engage.

    10. Object Number: 343889 Size: SH
  10. Install the steering shaft assembly to the steering column.

    11. Object Number: 343881 Size: SH
  11. Install the adapter and bearing assembly (1).

    12. Object Number: 343874 Size: SH
  12. Install the following 3 items to the steering column jacket assembly:
    13. 12.1. Install the lower bearing seat (3).
    12.2. Install the lower bearing spring (2).
    12.3. Install the lower spring retainer (1).

    Object Number: 388560 Size: SH
  13. Install the following 3 items to the steering column jacket assembly:
    14. 13.1. Install the steering wheel speed sensor assembly (2) to the adapter and bearing assembly (1).
    13.2. Install the sensor retainer (3).
    13.3. Install the steering shaft seal (4).
  14. Install the steering column housing assembly. Refer to Steering Column Jacket - Assemble - Off Vehicle .