GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 41688 Centering Sphere Installer Tool


    Object Number: 306322  Size: SH

    Important: Replace the steering column support assembly (1) if the steering column support assembly (1) has been staked 3 times.

  1. Install the steering column support assembly (1) to the jacket assembly.
  2. 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.

  3. Secure by using 4 Torx® screws (2).
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the screws to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).


    Object Number: 332949  Size: SH
  5. Lubricate the centering sphere (1) with lithium grease.
  6. Install the centering sphere (1) and the joint preload spring (2) into J 41688 .

  7. Object Number: 299881  Size: SH
  8. Compress the centering sphere and joint preload spring with J 41688 .

  9. Object Number: 299885  Size: SH
  10. Install the race and upper shaft assembly. Rotate the race and upper shaft assembly 90 degrees and remove with the centering sphere.

  11. Object Number: 299887  Size: SH
  12. Remove the race and upper shaft assembly with J 41688 .
  13. Rotate the race and upper shaft assembly 90 degrees and remove.

  14. Object Number: 299888  Size: SH
  15. Apply lithium grease to the race and upper shaft assembly (1).
  16. Install the lower shaft assembly (2) onto the race and upper shaft assembly (1) following the marks from the disassemble procedure.

  17. Object Number: 306316  Size: SH
  18. Install the steering shaft assembly (2) into the steering column tilt head assembly (1).

  19. Object Number: 306309  Size: SH
  20. Install the tilt head assembly (1) and the lower steering shaft (3) into the steering column jacket assembly (2).

  21. Object Number: 361527  Size: SH

    Important: Replace the steering column support assembly if the steering column support assembly has been staked 3 times.

  22. Install the 2 pivot pins onto the steering column support assembly.

  23. Object Number: 361529  Size: SH
  24. Install the adapter and bearing assembly (1).
  25. Install the lower bearing seat (2).
  26. Install the lower bearing spring (3).
  27. Install the lower spring retainer (4).
  28. Install the sensor retainer (5).
  29. Install the steering shaft seal (6).
  30. Install the linear shift assembly. Refer to Linear Shift Assembly - Assemble - Off Vehicle .
  31. Install the turn signal and multifunction switch assembly. Refer to Turn Signal and Multifunction Switch Assembly - Assemble - Off Vehicle .
  32. Install the tilt spring. Refer to Tilt Spring - Assemble - Off Vehicle .
  33. Install the lock module assembly. Refer to Electronic Column Lock Module - Assemble - Off Vehicle .