Steering Column Overhaul

Fig.19 Exploded View Of Steering Shaft Assembly:

DISASSEMBLE
1. Remove steering column.
2. Remove components in order as they appear noting the following:
a. If removal of steering wheel lock assembly is necessary, use a hacksaw to cut a groove in head of special bolts, then use a screwdriver to remove steering lock.
b. If removal of steering column bracket(s) is necessary, use a hacksaw to cut a groove in head of special bolts, then use a screwdriver to remove steering column bracket(s).

INSPECTION
1. Inspect steering shaft for bends and/or deformation.
2. Inspect steering shaft spline for breakage.
3. Inspect steering shaft joints for play, damage and/or binding.
4. Inspect rubber parts for cracks and/or breakage.

ASSEMBLE
Apply lubricant to surfaces as indicated. Specified lubricant is Mopar Multi-Mileage Lubricant Part No. 2525035, or equivalent. Assemble components in reverse order as they appear, noting the following:
1. When installing steering column bracket(s), tighten special bolts until bolt heads twist off. New special bolts must be used.
2. Install cover, bearing and joint assembly as follows:
a. Install cover on joint assembly.
b. Fill inside of bearing with specified lubricant.
c. Install bearings to shaft of joint assembly.
d. Wrap vinyl tape approximately 1 1/2 times around concave circumference of bearing, then press bearing into cover.
e. Apply specified lubricant to mating surfaces of joint and cover assemblies.
3. Install steering wheel lock assembly as follows:
a. Temporarily install steering lock in alignment with column boss.
b. Ensure lock functions correctly, then tighten special bolts until bolt heads twist off. Steering lock bracket and special bolts must be replaced with new ones when installing steering lock.