Removal and Installation

WARNING: Do not reuse steering column shaft bolts. This may result in fastener failure and steering column shaft detachment or loss of steering control. Failure to follow this instruction may result in serious injury to vehicle occupant(s).

NOTE: Do not allow the steering wheel to rotate while the intermediate shaft is disconnected or damage to the clockspring can result. If there is evidence that the shaft has rotated, the clockspring must be removed and re-centered. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM .

NOTE: Do not use a hammer to separate the tie-rod end from the wheel knuckle or damage to the wheel knuckle can result.

NOTE: Install the steering column lock bolt or equivalent hand tight any time the steering column shaft is disconnected or damage to the internal steering column sensor may occur.

NOTE: Do not allow the steering column to rotate while the steering column shaft is disconnected or damage to the clockspring may result. If there is evidence that the steering column has rotated, remove and re-center the clockspring. For additional information, refer to SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM .

NOTE: It may be necessary to lower the rear of the front subframe slightly to provide clearance for removing the steering gear bolts. For additional information, refer to the front subframe exploded view in UNI-BODY, SUBFRAME AND MOUNTING SYSTEM .

NOTE: When installing, apply a thin coating of premium long-life grease to the bellows boot-to-steering gear mating surfaces.

NOTE: In order to ensure the most accurate information, some procedural and pinpoint test steps may be under development and not immediately available at vehicle introduction.

Refer to Figure and Figure. Items in the exploded views may not be listed in order of removal.