Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview

CAUTION: Once the steering column is removed from the vehicle, the column is extremely susceptible to damage. Dropping the column assembly on its end could collapse the steering column shaft or loosen the plastic injections that keep the column rigid. Leaning on the column assembly cold cause the jacket to bend or deform. Under no conditions should the end of the shaft be hammered upon as this could loosen the plastic injections that keep the column rigid.

Figure 4 - Checking Steering Column For Damage:

INSPECT

Steering column assembly.

^ Capsules on the steering column bracket assembly should be within 1.59 mm (0.063 inch) from the slots.
- If capsules are not within these specifications, the bracket should be replaced.

^ Check contact surface of bolt to the bracket. The bolt head must not contact the surface of the bracket or the shear load will be increased.
- If contact between the bolt and bracket is made, replace the bracket.
- If you are able to move lever to "PARK" position without raising the lever, the upper shift tube plastic bearing may be broken.

^ Check for jacket collapse by measuring the distance from the end of the bearing assembly to the lower edge of upper jacket.
- If jacket dimensions are less than 127 mm to 129 mm (5.0 in. to 5-3/32 in.) for the standard column or 128 mm to 130 mm (5-1/32 in. to 5-1/8 in.) for the tilt column, a new jacket must be installed.

^ Visually inspect the shift tube and steering shaft for sheared injected plastic.
- If shift tube shows sheared plastic, a new shift tube must be installed.
- If steering shaft shows sheared plastic and is not bent, it can be repaired by using a service steering shaft repair package.

^ Any vehicle damage that could cause a bent steering shaft must have steering shaft runout checked.
- Remove intermediate shaft.
- Hold ruler or dial indicator against lower end of steering shaft and have the steering wheel rotated. Runout should not exceed 1.59 mm (0.063 in.).
- If runout does not exceed 1.59 mm (0.063 in.), replace the steering shaft.