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Home >> Chevrolet >> 2002 >> Blazer 4D Utility, 4WD, Part Time >> Repair and Diagnosis >> External Pages >> Different car >> Section 1357 (Steering Wheel & Steering Column) >> Repair Instructions >> Steering Column Replacement >> Installation Procedure

Installation Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Verify the front tires have not moved since the removal of the steering column.
  2. If you are replacing the steering column, copy the match marks from the old column to the new column.
  3. Fig 1: Ignition Key Alarm Switch, Lock Cylinder, Ignition Switch, Cylinder Case, Case Clamp And Bolts
    GM820048Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  4. If you removed the ignition lock cylinder case, install the following components to the steering column:
    1. The ignition lock cylinder case (6)
    2. The ignition and key alarm switch (1)
    3. The 2 screws (8,9) and the ignition switch (7)
    4. The ignition lock cylinder case clamp (5)
    5. 2 NEW tapered head bolts

      Tighten the bolts until the bolt heads break off.

  5. If you removed the ignition switch cylinder (2), complete the following steps:
    1. Insert the key into the cylinder.
    2. Turn the key to the ACC position.
    3. Install the cylinder into the case.
    4. Verify the stop pin engages the case.
    5. Remove the key from the cylinder.
  6. Attempt to turn the steering column shaft. Verify the steering column locks.
  7. Insert the key into the cylinder.
  8. Attempt to turn the steering column shaft and turn the key to the ACC position. Verify the steering column unlocks.
  9. Remove the key from the cylinder.
  10. Align the match marks and lock the steering column in the original position.
  11. Fig 2: Steering Shaft Couplings, Steering Column Shafts And Bolts
    GM820173Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  12. If you removed the steering shaft coupling (2), align the match marks on the coupling and on the steering column shaft. Install the coupling to the steering column shaft.
  13. CAUTION: In order to ensure the intended function of the steering column in a vehicle during a crash and in order to avoid personal injury to the driver, perform the following:
    • Tighten the steering column lower fasteners before you tighten the steering column upper fasteners. Failure to do this can damage the steering column.
    • Tighten the steering column fasteners to the specified torque. Overtightening the upper steering column fasteners could affect the steering column collapse.
    NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice in Cautions and Notices.
  14. Install the steering column and the 3 bolts to the vehicle.

    Tighten: 

    1. Tighten the lower bolt to 21 N.m (15.5 lb ft).
    2. Tighten the 2 upper bolts to 21 N.m (15.5 lb ft).

  15. Align the match marks on the coupling and on the shaft (4).
  16. Lower the coupling onto the shaft.
  17. Install the 2 coupling bolts.

    Tighten: 

    1. Tighten the lower bolt to 35 N.m (25.8 lb ft).
    2. Tighten the upper bolt to 35 N.m (25.8 lb ft).

  18. Place the silencer pad in the correct position.
  19. Fig 3: Release Button And Park Lock Cable
    GM820160Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  20. If the vehicle has an automatic transmission, complete the following steps:
    1. Insert the key into the cylinder.
    2. Turn the key to the ACC position.
    3. Insert the park lock cable (2). Verify the release button (3) engages.
    4. Verify the key will not rotate to the LOCK position unless the shifter is in the PARK position.
    5. Remove the key from the cylinder.
    6. Lock the steering column in the original position.
  21. Fig 4: Identifying Upper Steering Column Components
    GM820027Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  22. Install the SIR coil (5). Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Coil Replacement in SIR.
  23. If necessary, center the SIR coil. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Coil Centering .
  24. Install the windshield wiper and washer switch (8). Refer to Wipers/Washer Switch Replacement in Wipers/Washer Systems.
  25. Install the turn signal and headlamp dimmer switch (4). Refer to Headlamp Switch Replacement in Lighting Systems.
  26. Install the steering wheel (3). Refer to Steering Wheel Replacement .
  27. Install the inflatable restraint steering wheel module (1). Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement .
  28. Connect the connectors on the steering column.
  29. Install the wire harness clamps to the steering column.
  30. Install the trim covers (6,7) to the column. Refer to Steering Column Trim Covers Replacement .