Steering Column Removal And Installation: Notes
CAUTION:
Once the steering column is removed from the vehicle, the column is extremely susceptible to damage. Dropping the column assembly on its end could collapse the steering shaft or loosen the plastic shear pins which maintain column length leaning on the column assembly could cause it to bend or deform. Any of the above damage could impair the column's collapsible design.
When loosening steering column mounting bolts, make sure that steering column assembly and steering shaft lower assembly have been separated. Loosening them with steering column assembly and steering shaft lower assembly assembled could cause damage to bearing in steering shaft lower assembly.
NOTE:
When servicing steering column or any column-mounted component, remove steering wheel. But when removing steering column simply to gain access to instrument panel components, leave steering wheel installed on steering column.