GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 42640 Steering Column Lock 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.


    Object Number: 333146  Size: SH
  1. Insert J 42640 into the steering column access hole in order to lock the steering column. This will maintain the correct orientation.

  2. Object Number: 296676  Size: SH
  3. Remove the driver's insulator panel. Refer to Instrument Panel Insulator Panel Replacement - Left Side .
  4. Reposition the intermediate shaft seal and remove the intermediate shaft upper pinch bolt (3), if equipped.

  5. Object Number: 748880  Size: SH
  6. If equipped, remove the upper thru bolt (1) from the intermediate shaft (2).
  7. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
  8. Remove the left front tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  9. Notice: The front wheels of the vehicle must be maintained in the straight ahead position and the steering column must be in the LOCK position before disconnecting the steering column or intermediate shaft. Failure to follow these procedures will cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in damage to the SIR coil assembly.


    Object Number: 442102  Size: SH
  10. Remove the intermediate shaft seal (1) from the steering gear (2).

  11. Object Number: 442116  Size: SH
  12. Remove the intermediate shaft lower pinch bolt (2).
  13. Remove the intermediate shaft (1) from the steering gear (3).
  14. Remove the intermediate shaft (1) from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

Notice: The steering column must be in the LOCK position before disconnecting the following components:

   • The steering column
   • The steering shaft coupling
   • The intermediate shaft
   • The lower steering shaft
After disconnecting these components, do not move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow these procedures may cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in possible damage to the SIR coil.


    Object Number: 442116  Size: SH

    Caution: If steering column to cowl panel seal is torn or otherwise damaged, it must be replaced. Confirm that the seal and inner race are properly located. Failure to do so may allow carbon monoxide into the vehicle, which may result in serious personal injury or death.

  1. Install the intermediate shaft (1) onto the steering gear (3).
  2. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  3. Install the intermediate shaft lower pinch bolt (2).
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 18 N·m (13 lb ft).


    Object Number: 442102  Size: SH
  5. Install the intermediate shaft seal (1) to the steering gear (2).
  6. Install the left front tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  7. Lower the vehicle.

  8. Object Number: 296676  Size: SH
  9. Install the intermediate shaft (4) onto the steering column (2).
  10. Install the intermediate shaft upper pinch bolt (3), if equipped.
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 18 N·m (13 lb ft).


    Object Number: 748880  Size: SH
  12. If equipped, install the upper thru bolt (1) to the intermediate shaft (2).
  13. Tighten
    Tighten to 62 N·m (46 lb ft).

  14. Install the driver's side insulator panel. Refer to Instrument Panel Insulator Panel Replacement - Left Side .