Steering Column/Tilt Lever Inspection/Adjustment

Check the steering column ball bearing (A) and the steering joint bearings (B) for play and proper movement. If any bearing is noisy or has excessive play, replace the steering column as an assembly.
Check the retaining collar (C) for damage. If it is damaged, replace the steering column as an assembly.
Check the absorbing plates (D), absorbing plate guides (E) and sliding capsules (F) for distortion or breakage. If there is distortion or breakage, replace the steering column as an assembly. The sliding capsule is attached to the column bracket with the plastic injections (G).

Fig 1: Checking The Absorbing Plates, Absorbing Plate Guides & Sliding Capsules
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.

Move the tilt lever (A) from the loose position to the lock position three to five times. With the tilt lever in the loose position measure the tilt lever in the loose position measure the tilt lever preload 10 mm (0.4") from the end of the tilt lever.
Preload: 70-90 N (7-9 kgf, 15-20 lbf)

Fig 2: Measuring The Tilt Lever Preload
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.
If the measurement is out of the specification, adjust the preload using the following procedures.
- Loosen the tilt lever, and set the steering column in the neutral position.
- Remove the 6 mm lock bolt (B), and remove the stop (C).
- Adjust the preload by turning the tilt lock bolt (D) left or right.
- Pull up the tilt lever to the uppermost position, and install the stop. Be careful not to loosen the tilt lever when installing the stop or tightening the 6 mm lock bolt. Check the preload again. If the measurement is still out of specification, repeat the above procedures to adjust.