Service Precaution - Steering Column

CAUTION:
^ When fasteners are removed, always reinstall them at the same location from which they were removed. If a fastener needs to be replaced, use the correct part number fastener for that application. If the correct part number fastener is not available, a fastener of equal size and strength (or stronger) may be used. Fasteners that are not reused, and those requiring thread locking compound will be called out. The correct torque value must be used when installing fasteners that require it. If the above conditions are not followed, parts or system damage could result.
^ Once steering column is removed from vehicle, the column is extremely susceptible to damage. Dropping steering column assembly on its end could collapse steering shaft or loosen plastic injections which maintain column rigidity. Leaning on steering column assembly could cause jacket to bend or deform. Any of the above damage could impair steering column's collapsible design. If it is necessary to remove steering wheel, use only the specified steering wheel puller. Under no conditions should the end of shaft be hammered on as hammering could loosen plastic injections which maintain steering column rigidity.