Tilt Spring - Disassemble - Off Vehicle

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Chevrolet Monte Carlo and 2002 Chevrolet Impala. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CAUTION: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:

Air bag deployment
Personal injury
Unnecessary SIR system repairs

In order to avoid the above conditions, observe the following guidelines:

If you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, disable the SIR system. Refer to DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .

Fig 1: Tilt Steering Head
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Disable the inflatable restraint steering wheel module. Refer to DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .
Remove the upper and lower trim covers. Refer to Steering Column Trim Covers - Disassemble - Off Vehicle .
Use the tilt lever to tilt the column in the UP position.
CAUTION: The tilt spring and the spring guide are under pressure. The tilt spring and the spring guide may become a projectile. Secure the spring with locking pliers during removal. Secure the spring with locking pliers during installation. Bodily injury may result during removal and installation of the tilt spring and the spring guide. Always use caution during removal and installation of the tilt spring and the spring guide.
Remove the tilt spring (1).
1. Pry the tilt spring up using a screwdriver until a bulge occurs and most of the tilt spring tension is removed.
2. Secure the tilt spring with locking pliers and continue prying until the tilt spring disengages from the post on the steering column support assembly (2) and the steering column tilt head assembly (3).
  
  Fig 2: Tilt Spring
  Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the spring guide (1) from the tilt spring (2).

Fig 3: Spring Guide
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.