Service Precautions

WARNING: The airbag system is a sensitive, complex electro-mechanical unit. Before attempting to diagnose, remove or install the airbag system components you must first disconnect and isolate the battery negative (ground) cable. Then wait two minutes for the system capacitor to discharge. Failure to do so could result in accidental deployment of the air bag and possible personal injury. The fasteners, screws and bolts, originally used for the airbag components, have special coatings and are specifically designed for the airbag system. They must never be replaced with any substitutes. Anytime a new fastener is needed, replace with the correct fasteners provided in the service package or fasteners listed in the parts books.

CAUTION: Do not hammer on steering column shaft. This may cause damage to the shaft or bearing.

CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove the pivot bolts to disassemble the tilting mechanism.

Fig 1: STEERING COLUMN

Courtesy of CHRYSLER LLC

1 - KEY CYLINDER

2 - GEAR SHIFT LEVER

3 - MOUNTING HOLES

4 - STEERING COLUMN

5 - IGNITION SWITCH

NOTE:

Safety goggles should be worn at all times when working on steering columns.
The steering column on vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission is not equipped with an internal locking shaft with the ignition cylinder. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.
The tilt and standard column (4) have been designed to be serviced as an assembly; without wiring, switches, shrouds, steering wheel, etc. Most steering column components can be serviced without removing the steering column from the vehicle.
To service the steering wheel, switches or airbag, Refer to Electrical Restraints and follow all WARNINGS and CAUTIONS.

Fig 2: IGNITION SWITCH WITH TILT

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1 - IGNITION SWITCH

2 - TILT LEVER MECHANISM

NOTE: The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed first before removing ignition switch.

Remove the negative (ground) cable from the battery.
Disable the airbag. Refer to Restraints/AIR BAG, Driver - Removal .
Remove the lower and upper shrouds.
Remove key cylinder. Refer to Steering/Column/CYLINDER, Ignition Lock - Removal .
Disconnect the lower clockspring connectors.
Remove the wire retainer from the tilt lever bracket.
Remove the tilt lever mounting screws to gain access to the ignition switch (1) mounting screws.

Fig 3: IGNITION SWITCH WITHOUT TILT
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1 - Ignition Switch Mounting Screws

2 - Non-Tilt Mounitng Bracket Screws
For columns without tilt remove the bracket (2) to gain access to the ignition switch mounting screws (1).

Fig 4: IGNITION SWITCH
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1 - Ignition Switch

2 - Ignition Switch Mounting Screws
Disconnect the electrical connector at rear of ignition switch (1).
Remove ignition switch mounting screws (2).
Using a small screwdriver, push on locking tab and remove switch from steering column.