Steering Column: Column: Installation

Fig 1: Steering Column Nuts & Assembly

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

WARNING: BEFORE SERVICING THE STEERING COLUMN THE AIRBAG SYSTEM MUST BE DISARMED. REFER TO RESTRAINTS - SERVICE INFORMATION FOR SERVICE PROCEDURES. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.

CAUTION: All fasteners must be torqued to specification to ensure proper operation of the steering column.

1. Position the steering column (2) on the dash panel support (1) and loosely install the mounting nuts (3).
2. Firmly slide the steering column (2) upward against the studs (1) in dash panel and hand tighten the nuts (3).
3. Install the steering shaft coupler on the steering shaft and loosely install a new  bolt.
4. Center steering column (2) in dash opening and tighten mounting nuts (3) to 28 N.m (250 in. lbs.).
   NOTE: Torque the upper left nut first then the lower right nut. Then torque the lower left nut then the upper right nut.
   NOTE: A new bolt must be used for reinstallation.
5. Tighten the coupler bolt to 38 N.m (28 ft. lbs.).
   Fig 2: Steering Column Shrouds

   Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
6. Install a new brake light switch (5) (Refer to ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/BRAKE LAMP SWITCH - REMOVAL) .
7. Install the shifter cable.
   Fig 3: Locating Steering Column Wiring & Fasteners

   Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
8. Connect the wiring harness (1) to the column (2).
9. Install the SKIM module.
10. Install the clockspring. Refer to INSTALLATION .
    Fig 4: Steering Column Shrouds

    Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
11. Install the shrouds (1 and 3).
    Fig 5: Steering Column Opening Reinforcement

    Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
12. Install the steering column opening reinforcement (1).
    Fig 6: Steering Column And Cover

    Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
13. Install the steering column opening cover (2) (Refer to BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/STEERING COLUMN OPENING COVER - INSTALLATION) .
    Fig 7: Removing/Installing Steering Wheel & Bolt

    Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.
14. Align the spline on the steering wheel hub to shaft (4).
15. Then install the steering wheel (1) and install a new  bolt (2). Tighten the bolt to 61 N.m (45 ft. lbs.).
16. Install the airbag (Refer to ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - INSTALLATION) .
17. Install the tilt lever handle.
18. Install the negative battery terminal.
19. Test the operation of the horn, Electronic PRNDL Indicator, lights and any other functions that are steering column operated.