GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Saturn 🢒 2005 🢒 ION 🢒 Steering 🢒 Power Steering System 🢒 Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement

Removal Procedure

    Notice: Secure the steering wheel utilizing a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:

       • The steering column
       • The intermediate shaft
       • The steering gear
    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.

  1. Remove the left front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.

    2. Object Number: 851655 Size: SH
  2. Remove the intermediate steering shaft bolt at the steering gear.
  3. Disconnect the intermediate steering shaft from the steering gear.

    4. Object Number: 854943 Size: SH

    Important: Scribe marks will be needed for proper alignment of the intermediate steering shaft.

  4. Place scribe marks on the intermediate steering shaft and the steering column shaft prior to removal.

    5. Object Number: 854769 Size: SH
  5. Remove the intermediate steering shaft bolt at the steering column.
  6. Disconnect the intermediate steering shaft from the steering column shaft.
  7. Unseat the intermediate steering shaft seal from the body pass-through.
  8. Remove the intermediate steering shaft and seal assembly from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure
  1. Perform the following procedure before installing the lower and upper intermediate steering shaft bolts:
    2. 1.1. Remove all traces of the original adhesive patch.
    1.2. Clean the threads of the bolt with denatured alcohol, or equivalent, and allow to dry.
    1.3. Apply threadlocker GM P/N 12345493 (Canadian P/N 10953488) or blue, medium LOCTITE™ 242.

    Important: Failure to transfer the scribed marks may result in an off-center steering wheel.

  2. If installing a new intermediate steering shaft then transfer the scribed marks made previously.
  3. Position the intermediate steering shaft and seal assembly to the vehicle.

    4. Important: Inspect the intermediate steering shaft seal from the engine compartment to make sure it is seated properly.

  4. Seat the intermediate steering shaft seal to the body pass-through.
  5. Align the scribed marks on the intermediate steering shaft to the scribed marks on the steering column shaft.

    6. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 854769 Size: SH
  6. Connect the intermediate steering shaft to the steering column.
  7. Install a new intermediate steering shaft bolt.

    8. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 34 N·m (25 lb ft).


    Object Number: 851655 Size: SH
  8. Connect the intermediate steering shaft to the steering gear.
  9. Install a new intermediate steering shaft bolt.

    10. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 34 N·m (25 lb ft).

  10. Install the left front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.