Steering Column

The steering column is the mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the steering gear. It contains various switches and is able to tilt to suit driver preference. The steering wheel is mounted to a shaft which passes through the center of the steering column to the upper steering shaft. The upper steering shaft then connects to the lower steering shaft, which is connected to the steering gear. The upper and lower connections utilize U-joint type knuckles. The steering shaft is centered by roller ball bearings within the steering column. The tilt function of the steering wheel is controlled by a mechanical lever on the underside of the steering column which uses a cam to lock and unlock the steering wheel tilt position. When the tilt steering wheel lever is unlocked, the steering wheel can then be adjusted to various positions through a pin-type pivot. The steering column switches (multifunction and ignition) are mounted to the steering column. These switches are covered by the upper and lower steering column shrouds.