GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Notice: The steering column must be in the LOCK position before disconnecting the following components:

   • The steering column
   • The steering shaft coupling
   • The intermediate shaft
   • The lower steering shaft
After disconnecting these components, do not move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow these procedures may cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in possible damage to the SIR coil.


    Object Number: 296676  Size: SH
  1. Remove the driver's insulator panel. Refer to Instrument Panel Insulator Panel Replacement - Left Side in Instrument Panel, Gages, and Console.
  2. Reposition the intermediate shaft seal and remove the intermediate shaft upper pinch bolt (3).
  3. Disconnect the intermediate steering shaft from the steering column.
  4. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  5. Remove the left front tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  6. Notice: The front wheels of the vehicle must be maintained in the straight ahead position and the steering column must be in the LOCK position before disconnecting the steering column or intermediate shaft. Failure to follow these procedures will cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in damage to the SIR coil assembly.


    Object Number: 442102  Size: SH
  7. Disconnect the intermediate shaft seal (1) from the steering gear (2).

  8. Object Number: 442116  Size: SH
  9. Remove the intermediate shaft lower pinch bolt (2).
  10. Disconnect the intermediate shaft (1) from the steering gear (3).
  11. Remove the intermediate shaft (1) from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

Caution: If steering column to cowl panel seal is torn or otherwise damaged, it must be replaced. Confirm that the seal and inner race are properly located. Failure to do so may allow carbon monoxide into the vehicle, which may result in serious personal injury or death.

Notice: The steering column must be in the LOCK position before disconnecting the following components:

   • The steering column
   • The steering shaft coupling
   • The intermediate shaft
   • The lower steering shaft
After disconnecting these components, do not move the front tires and wheels. Failure to follow these procedures may cause improper alignment of some components during installation and result in possible damage to the SIR coil.


    Object Number: 442116  Size: SH
  1. Install the intermediate shaft (1) on the steering gear (3).
  2. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  3. Install the intermediate shaft lower pinch bolt (2).
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 17 N·m (13 lb ft).


    Object Number: 442102  Size: SH
  5. Connect the intermediate shaft seal (1) to the steering gear (2).
  6. Install the left front tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  7. Lower the vehicle.

  8. Object Number: 296676  Size: SH
  9. Connect the intermediate shaft (4) on the steering column (2).
  10. Install the intermediate shaft upper pinch bolt (3).
  11. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 18 N·m (13 lb ft).

  12. Install the intermediate shaft seal to the steering column.
  13. Install the driver's side insulator panel. Refer to Instrument Panel Insulator Panel Replacement - Left Side in Instrument Panel, Gages, and Console.