GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

    Notice: Secure the steering wheel utilizing a strap to prevent rotation. Locking of the steering column will prevent damage and a possible malfunction of the SIR system. The steering wheel must be secured in position before disconnecting the following components:

       • The steering column
       • The intermediate shaft
       • The steering gear
    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.

    Important: The steering column tilt lever MUST be in the LOCK (FULL UP) position before disconnecting the following components:

       • The steering column
       • The intermediate steering shaft

  1. Turn the steering wheel to the straight forward position and support it from movement.
  2. Remove the left front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .

  3. Object Number: 851655  Size: SH
  4. Remove the intermediate steering shaft lower bolt at the steering gear and discard it.
  5. Separate the intermediate steering shaft from the steering gear.
  6. Remove the left side instrument panel insulator. Refer to Instrument Panel Insulator Replacement - Left Side .

  7. Object Number: 1236963  Size: SH
  8. Remove the intermediate steering shaft bolt at the steering column and discard it.
  9. Separate the intermediate steering shaft from the steering column.

  10. Object Number: 854913  Size: SH
  11. Squeeze the 4 lock tabs on the intermediate steering shaft seal and pull it towards the inside of the vehicle to unseat it from the instrument panel compartment pass-through.
  12. Remove the intermediate steering shaft from inside the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 854913  Size: SH
  1. Install the intermediate steering shaft from inside the vehicle.
  2. Important: Do NOT twist or squeeze the seal during installation and position it in its original position. Ensure the it is properly seated and inspect the 4 lock tabs from the engine side for any damage. If the intermediate steering shaft seal lock tabs are damaged then replace the seal.

  3. Seat the intermediate steering shaft seal by pushing it forward from the inside of the vehicle until all four lock tabs are fully seated.
  4. Connect the intermediate steering shaft to the steering column.
  5. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 1236963  Size: SH
  6. Install the new intermediate steering shaft bolt.
  7. Tighten

        • For electronic power steering, tighten the bolt to 49 N·m (36 lb ft).
        • For hydraulic power steering, tighten the bolt to 62 N·m (46 lb ft).
  8. Install the left side instrument panel insulator. Refer to Instrument Panel Insulator Replacement - Left Side .
  9. Connect the intermediate steering shaft to the steering gear.

  10. Object Number: 851655  Size: SH
  11. Install the new intermediate steering shaft lower bolt.
  12. Tighten
    Tighten the bolt to 49 N·m (36 lb ft).

  13. Install the left front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .