Removal Procedure
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Aztek and 2004 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key from the ignition lock cylinder in order to lock the steering column.
- Remove the left closeout panel. Refer to Closeout/Insulator Panel Replacement - Left in Instrument Panel, Gages, and Console.
- Disconnect the intermediate shaft seal from the steering column.
- Remove the intermediate shaft to steering column pinch bolt.
- Disconnect the intermediate shaft from the steering column. Refer to Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement .
- Collapse the intermediate shaft in order to gain clearance.
- Cut three 1-inch slits in the insulation over the seal bolts in order to access the seal bolts.
- Remove the intermediate shaft seal bolts.
- Remove the intermediate shaft seal from the inside of the vehicle.
- If the lower intermediate shaft seal remains, then remove the seal from the intermediate shaft through the inside of the vehicle.
IMPORTANT:
The intermediate shaft does not need to be removed from the vehicle.