GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Tools Required

J 42640 Steering Column Anti-Rotation Pin

Removal Procedure

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: 333146  Size: SH
  1. Lock the steering column through the access hole in the lower steering column trim cover using J 42640 .
  2. Remove the air cleaner assembly. Refer to Air Cleaner Outlet Resonator Replacement in Engine Controls - 2.2 L or Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.3 L.
  3. Note the relationship of the lower intermediate shaft to the upper intermediate shaft and the lower intermediate shaft to the steering gear input shaft in order to ensure proper installation.


    Object Number: 288800  Size: SH
  4. Remove the intermediate shaft shield from the lower intermediate shaft.

  5. Object Number: 692  Size: SH
  6. Remove the lower intermediate shaft coupling to steering gear input shaft retaining bolt.

  7. Object Number: 395781  Size: SH
  8. Remove the lower intermediate shaft from the vehicle.
  9. 5.1. Slide the lower intermediate shaft rearward in order to remove the lower intermediate shaft coupling from the steering gear input shaft.
    5.2. Slide the lower intermediate shaft forward in order to remove the lower intermediate shaft from the upper intermediate shaft.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 395781  Size: SH
  1. Install the lower intermediate shaft.
  2. 1.1. Slide the lower intermediate shaft rearward in order to install the lower intermediate shaft to the upper intermediate shaft.
    1.2. Slide the lower intermediate shaft forward in order to install the lower intermediate shaft coupling to the steering gear input shaft.

    Object Number: 692  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 intermediate shaft coupling to steering gear input shaft retaining bolt.
  4. Tighten
    Tighten the lower intermediate shaft coupling to steering gear input shaft retaining bolt to 35 N·m (25 lb ft).


    Object Number: 288800  Size: SH
  5. Install the shield to the lower intermediate shaft.
  6. Install the air cleaner assembly. Refer to Air Cleaner Outlet Resonator Replacement in Engine Controls - 2.2 L or Air Cleaner Assembly Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.3 L.

  7. Object Number: 333146  Size: SH
  8. Unlock the steering column by removing J 42640 from the steering column lower trim cover access hole.