Removal Procedure
- Turn the steering wheel far enough to the left to gain access to the intermediate steering shaft lower bolt (1).
- Remove the intermediate steering shaft lower bolt (1).
- The steering column
- The intermediate shaft(s)
- The steering gear
- Insert J 42640 steering column lock pin (1) into the steering column access hole in order to lock the steering column. This will maintain the correct orientation.
- Remove the lower coupling (2) from the steering gear (3).
- Remove the drivers instrument panel insulator panel. Refer to Instrument Panel Insulator Panel Replacement .
- Remove the upper steering gear coupling nut (1) and bolt (2).
- Slide the upper coupling from the steering column shaft.
- Release the gear shaft boot toward the passenger compartment side of the cowl.
- Remove the intermediate shaft from the passenger compartment side of the vehicle.
CAUTION:
With wheels of the vehicle facing straight ahead, secure the steering wheel utilizing steering column anti-rotation pin, steering column lock, or a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:
After disconnecting these components, do not rotate the steering wheel or move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow this procedure may cause the SIR coil assembly to become un-centered and cause possible damage to the SIR coil. If you think the SIR coil has became un-centered, refer to your specific SIR coil's centering procedure to re-center SIR Coil.