Steering Column Inspection

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 absorbing plates (C), absorbing plate guides (D), stop (E), and coating plates (F) for distortion and breakage. If there is distortion or breakage, replace the steering column as an assembly.

Fig 1: Inspecting Steering Column
Courtesy of AMERICAN HONDA MOTOR CO., INC.