The Steering Column of vehicles experiences damage or misalignment when such vehicles suffer accidents leading to frame damage or encounters sheet metal damage or major body harm or impacts with the Steering Column while having their supplemental inflatable restraints system deployed. Check the Steering Column bracket assembly capsules by visually inspecting their proper seat in bracket slots then check bracket stability through manual hand tests. A bracket repair is required when capsules are not properly seated against the bracket and the connection is bolted to the jacket assembly. However, replacement of the entire jacket assembly is necessary when capsules are not secure but the bracket is welded to the jacket assembly. A measurement of the lower edge to defined point distance on the jacket assembly will help identify possible collapse where the assembly needs replacement if specifications are not met. Removing the inflatable restraint coil assembly from the Steering Column is essential before shaft rotation because letting it hang freely protects its coil structure from damage. The inspection must detect sheared injected plastic on the
Steering Shaft since such damage requires a new Steering Shaft installation. A dial indicator should be used to check Steering Shaft runout at the lower end of the shaft through steering wheel rotation until the runout measurement reaches 1.60 mm (0.06 inch).