GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Tools Required

J 42640 Steering Column Antirotation Pin

    Caution: Unless directed otherwise, the ignition and start switch must be in the OFF or LOCK position, and all electrical loads must be OFF before servicing any electrical component. Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent an electrical spark should a tool or equipment come in contact with an exposed electrical terminal. Failure to follow these precautions may result in personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

  1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
  2. Caution: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:

       • Air bag deployment
       • Personal injury
       • Unnecessary SIR system repairs
    In order to avoid the above conditions, observe the following guidelines:
       • Refer to SIR Component Views in order to determine if you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring.
       • If you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System.

  3. Disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System in Restraints.

  4. Object Number: 263832  Size: SH
  5. Insert the J 42640 into the steering column access hole in order to lock the steering column. This will maintain the correct orientation.
  6. If you disassemble the steering column, remove the inflatable restraint steering wheel module from the SIR connector (4). Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement in Restraints.
  7. If you disassemble the steering column, remove the steering wheel. Refer to Steering Wheel Replacement .

  8. Object Number: 255216  Size: LH
  9. Push in the hazard button in order to reduce the risk of damage.
  10. Remove the knee bolster and the bracket or the reinforcement.
  11. For the column shift, remove the shift lever cable (8).
  12. For the console shift, complete the following steps:
  13. 9.1. Unlock the ignition.
    9.2. Remove the park lock cable (9).
    9.3. Lock the ignition.
  14. Disconnect the steering column wiring harness connector (5) from the main body wiring harness.
  15. Remove the steering column shaft from the intermediate shaft (8).
  16. Position the seal as needed.
  17. Loosen or remove the upper intermediate shaft pinch bolt.

  18. Object Number: 141935  Size: SH

    Important: Do not remove the 2 nuts (1).

  19. Loosen the 2 nuts (1) at the lower steering column support.

  20. Object Number: 800069  Size: SH

    Important: Stabilize the studs in order to remove the nuts securing the steering column to the instrument panel.

  21. Support the steering column.

  22. Object Number: 141933  Size: SH
  23. Remove the 2 nuts (1) at the upper steering column support.
  24. Important: Discard the clips at the upper steering column support (if equipped). These clips are for assembly plant usage only.

  25. Remove the steering column from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 141935  Size: SH

    Important: 

       • When installing the steering column, install the fasteners needed for completing each step of the installation. DO NOT tighten the fasteners until the procedure instructs you to tighten the fasteners.
       • In order to ensure that the column absorbs energy correctly, use only the specified screws, bolts, and nuts. Tighten the components to the specified torque.

  1. Loosely install the nuts (1) on the lower support bracket studs.
  2. Position the steering column into the vehicle. Slide the lower support onto the nuts installed in step 1.

  3. Object Number: 141933  Size: SH
  4. Support the column. Install the 2 nuts (1) on the upper support bracket studs.

  5. Object Number: 255216  Size: LH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  6. Position the intermediate steering shaft (7) through the seal and onto the column shaft.
  7. Tighten

        • Tighten the pinch bolt to 47 N·m (35 lb ft).
        • Tighten the upper and the lower support nuts to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).
  8. Move the intermediate steering shaft seal into position.
  9. Connect the steering column wiring harness connector (5) to the main body wiring harness.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 8 N·m (71 lb in).

  11. For the column shift, install the shift lever cable (8).
  12. For the console shift, complete the following steps:
  13. 8.1. Unlock the ignition.
    8.2. Install the park lock cable (9).
    8.3. Lock the ignition.
  14. Install the knee bolster and the bracket or the reinforcement.
  15. Install the steering wheel, if previously removed. Refer to Steering Wheel Replacement .
  16. Install the inflatable restraint steering wheel module. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement in Restraints.
  17. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System in Restraints.
  18. Remove the J 42640 from the steering column.
  19. Connect the negative battery cable.
  20. Inspect the steering for proper operation.