STEERING COLUMN LOCK MECHANISM (OPERATION DESCRIBED)

STEERING COLUMN LOCK MECHANISM

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1988-1989 W BODY ------------------

The steering column lock mechanism on 1988 and 1989 'W' body vehicles functions somewhat differently than those on most other General Motors models. Instead of locking at any position after a relatively small amount of steering wheel movement, the 'W' body column lock mechanism operates somewhat like a ratcheting wrench with only two 'click' points as follows:

- The steering wheel can be turned to the right no more than 180 degrees (1/2 turn) before hitting a lock stop.

- The steering wheel can be turned fully to the left, but will ratchet past a 'click' point, or lock stop, every 180 degrees (1/2 turn). This will keep the wheel from being turned back to the right more than 1/2 turn from any given position.

- When the steering wheel is turned all the way to the left, the lock mechanism will limit the steering wheel to a small amount of travel back to the right, like those of other General Motors models.

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.