GM 10372647
Steering Column

Accidents that lead to frame damage along with major body damage and sheet metal damage together with impacts on the Steering Column or triggering of supplemental inflatable restraints systems typically result in misaligned steering columns. A complete inspection must verify that all capsules are correctly attached to their bracket slots before examining the system's loose conditions by manual pressure tests. The maintenance decision depends on bracket installation method; change only the bracket when it bolts to jacket assembly yet switch out jacket assembly when bracket welding exists. The distance between the lower edge of the upper jacket and defined point on the lower jacket must be measured for jacket assembly collapse evaluation. A replacement jacket assembly is necessary if measurements fall outside specified parameters. Pull out the inflatable restraint coil assembly from the Steering Column then let it dangle in free space to protect the coil assembly from harm before turning the shaft. A visual examination for sheared plastic in the Steering Shaft should be performed; replacement of the shaft is required in case sheared plastic is found. To detect incorrect Steering Shaft runout a dial indicator should be applied at the shaft bottom while wheel rotation with a maximum tolerance of 1.60 mm (0.06 inch).

Check the steering shaft runout using a dial indicator at the lower end of the steering shaft while rotating the steering wheel, ensuring the runout does not exceed 1.60 mm (0.06 inch).