Steering System: Column: Removal: Removal

WARNING:

When an undeployed airbag module is to be removed from the vehicle, first disconnect the battery ground cable and isolate it. Allow the system capacitor to discharge for a minimum of two minutes before starting any removal.

NOTE:

Before proceeding, refer to COLUMN, WARNING .

Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable. If equipped with an Intelligent Battery Sensor (IBS), disconnect the IBS connector first before disconnecting the negative battery cable.
Position the column tilt at the full-downward position.

Fig 1: Identifying Lower Shroud & Fasteners
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Remove upper and lower (2) shrouds from the steering column. Refer to SHROUD, STEERING COLUMN, LOWER, REMOVAL and SHROUD, STEERING COLUMN, UPPER, REMOVAL .
Remove the steering column opening cover. Refer to COVER, STEERING COLUMN OPENING, REMOVAL .
Remove the screws to the steering column trim ring.
Remove knee blocker air bag, if equipped. Refer to AIR BAG, KNEE BLOCKER, REMOVAL .
Remove the driver air bag. Refer to AIR BAG, DRIVER, REMOVAL .
Disconnect the wiring harness connectors at the Steering Column Control Module (SCCM).
Disconnect all other wiring harness connectors at column components.

Fig 2: Identifying Intermediate Shaft, Pinch Bolt And Steering Gear Pinion Shaft
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Remove intermediate shaft pinch bolt (3) and separate the intermediate shaft (1) at the base of the column from the steering gear pinion shaft (2). Discard the pinch bolt (3); it is not to be reused.

Fig 3: Steering Column Mounting Bolts & Nuts
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
Remove the two mounting bolts (1) and nuts (2) attaching the steering column to the instrument panel.
Remove the steering column from the vehicle.

Fig 4: Plastic Bracket & Screws
Courtesy of CHRYSLER GROUP, LLC
If replacing the column, remove the mounting screws (2) and transfer the plastic bracket (1) to the new column.