GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 42640 Steering Column Antirotation Pin

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 333146  Size: SH

    Caution: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:

       • Air bag deployment
       • Personal injury
       • Unnecessary SIR system repairs
    In order to avoid the above conditions, observe the following guidelines:
       • Refer to SIR Component Views in order to determine if you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring.
       • If you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System.

  1. Disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System in SIR.
  2. Install J 42640 into the lower steering column trim cover access hole in order to lock the steering column.
  3. Remove the steering wheel. Refer to Steering Wheel Replacement .
  4. Remove the knee bolster. Refer to Knee Bolster Replacement in Instrument Panel, Gages, and Console.

  5. Object Number: 394543  Size: SH
  6. Remove the upper pinch bolt and nut from the intermediate shaft.
  7. Disconnect the steering column from the intermediate shaft.
  8. Disconnect the steering column electrical connectors.

  9. Object Number: 141935  Size: SH
  10. Remove the lower mounting nuts (1).
  11. Important: Stabilize the studs in order to remove the nuts securing the steering column and the instrument panel.

  12. Support the steering column.

  13. Object Number: 800069  Size: SH
  14. Position a 13-mm crowfoot wrench onto one of the nuts which secures the steering column to the I/P.
  15. While holding the stud in position with a #7 inverted TORX® socket, remove the nut.
  16. Repeat the above steps for each nut.
  17. Remove the steering column from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

    Caution: In order to ensure the intended function of the steering column in a vehicle during a crash and in order to avoid personal injury to the driver, perform the following:

       • Tighten the steering column lower fasteners before you tighten the steering column upper fasteners. Failure to do this can damage the steering column.
       • Tighten the steering column fasteners to the specified torque. Overtightening the upper steering column fasteners could affect the steering column collapse.

  1. Install the steering column to the vehicle.

  2. Object Number: 141935  Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  3. Install the lower mounting nuts to the steering column.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).


    Object Number: 141933  Size: SH
  5. Install the upper mounting nuts (1) to the steering column.
  6. Tighten
    Tighten the nuts to 27 N·m (20 lb ft).

  7. Connect the steering column electrical connectors.

  8. Object Number: 394543  Size: SH
  9. Connect the intermediate steering shaft to the steering column.
  10. Install the upper pinch bolt. to the intermediate steering shaft
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 47 N·m (35 lb ft).

  12. Install the knee bolster. Refer to Knee Bolster Replacement in Instrument Panel, Gages, and Console.
  13. Install the steering wheel. Refer to Steering Wheel Replacement .

  14. Object Number: 333146  Size: SH
  15. Remove J 42640 from the steering column.
  16. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System in SIR.