GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 41688 Centering Sphere Installer


    Object Number: 242887  Size: SH
  1. Remove the steering column housing. Refer to Steering Column Jacket - Disassemble - Off Vehicle .
  2. Remove the shaft assembly (1) from the steering column housing support and jacket assembly (2).

  3. Object Number: 242890  Size: SH
  4. Note the position of the lower steering shaft assembly (4) in relation to the upper steering shaft assembly (1).
  5. Important: Failure to assemble properly will cause steering wheel to be turned 180 degrees.

  6. Mark (3) the upper steering shaft assembly (1) and mark (5) the lower steering shaft assembly (4) to show alignment.

  7. Object Number: 242894  Size: SH
  8. Remove the bearing assembly (2) from the steering column jacket assembly (1) if required.

  9. Object Number: 242898  Size: SH
  10. If required, remove the steering column housing support (2) from the steering column jacket assembly (3) in the following manner:
  11. 5.1. Remove the support screws (1).
    5.2. Discard the support screws (1).
    5.3. Remove the steering column housing support (2).

    Object Number: 242901  Size: SH
  12. Tilt the upper steering shaft assembly (2) 90 degrees from the lower steering shaft assembly (1).
  13. Disengage the upper steering shaft assembly (2) from the lower steering shaft assembly (1).

  14. Object Number: 242918  Size: SH
  15. Place the base of J 41688 into a vise.
  16. Install the upper steering shaft assembly (2) to J 41688 .
  17. Rotate the upper steering shaft assembly (2) 90 degrees downward to disengage.

  18. Object Number: 242912  Size: SH

    Important: Ensure that the feet of the driver slide into the grooves of the tool base. The spring is under pressure. Be carefull when disengaging J 41688 .

  19. Rotate J 41688 90 degrees clockwise.

  20. Object Number: 242908  Size: SH
  21. Disengage J 41688 .
  22. Separate the centering sphere halves (1) and (3).
  23. Remove the joint preload spring (2).