Steering Column: Installation

To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten new shear bolts (until heads break off) after installing column lock bracket and lower bearing plate.

Fig 1: Steering Wheel Lock Position. Make sure lock is properly positioned.

1. Install lock so upper edge is 3.8" (97 mm) from upper edge of column. See Figure . Make sure both plastic guides and spacers are in place. Washers must face downward.
2. Insert column through firewall. Install shear bolts and column clamp, but do not tighten them.
3. Adjust column position so lock protrudes .53-.65" 13.5-16.5 mm) from dash, measured at lock position "II". Column must not contact upper attachment plastic guides. Adjust dash beam if needed.
4. Tighten column clamp and bracket bolts. Install defroster duct. Install firewall seal. Loosely install upper joint on steering shaft. Install lower steering shaft flange to upper joint.
5. Check distance between lower steering shaft shoulder andupper joint. Distance should be .40-.75" (10-19 mm). If distance is incorrect, pull up lower joint cover, loosen joints and move lower shaft up or down.
6. Check distance between steering wheel and upper column cover. If clearance is not .04-.08" (1-2 mm), pull up lower joint cover, loosen lower joint and move lower shaft up or down.
7. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Tighten shear bolts until heads break off. If needed, place 1 or 2 flat washers between steering wheel and upper bearing spring to stop rattling.