Steering Column

The steering column system consists of the following components:

• Steering wheel
• Steering column
• Upper and lower steering column shafts
• Steering column switches
• Ignition lock cylinder
• Ignition switch

The steering column is the mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the steering gear. The steering wheel is mounted to a shaft which passes through the center of the steering column. The shaft is centered by bearings within the steering column. The steering column shaft then connects the steering column to the steering gear. The steering column shaft utilizes U-joint type couplings. The tilt/telescoping function of the steering column is controlled by a mechanical lever on the side of the steering column which uses a cam to lock and unlock the steering column. When the tilt/telescope lever is unlocked, the steering column can be adjusted to various positions through a pin-type pivot. The steering column switches (multifunction and ignition) are mounted to the steering column, covered by the upper and lower steering column shrouds.

Refer to STEERING COLUMN SWITCHES for additional information on steering column switch service information.

Refer to HANDLES, LOCKS, LATCHES AND ENTRY SYSTEMS for additional information on ignition lock cylinder service information.