Restraints DODGE RAM 1500 1998 2.G Repair Manual

(5) Disconnect the body wire harness connector for
the side curtain airbag from the connector receptacle
at the back of the airbag inflator.
(6) Remove the four screws (standard cab) or six
screws (quad cab) that secure the side curtain airbag
inflator and manifold tube brackets to the nuts in the
roof rail.
(7) Grasp the extruded plastic side curtain airbag
channel firmly and pull it straight away from the
roof rail far enough to disengage all three (standard
cab) or five (quad cab) plastic push-in fasteners that
secure it.
(8) Remove the side curtain airbag from the vehi-
cle as a unit.
INSTALLATION
The following procedure is for replacement of a
faulty or damaged side curtain airbag. If the airbag
is faulty or damaged, but not deployed, review the
recommended procedures for handling non-deployed
supplemental restraints. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PROCEDURE - HAN-
DLING NON-DEPLOYED SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINTS). If the side curtain airbag has been
deployed, review the recommended procedures for
service after a supplemental restraint deployment
before removing the airbag from the vehicle. (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS - STANDARD PRO-
CEDURE - SERVICE AFTER A SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT DEPLOYMENT).
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, WHEN REMOVING A DEPLOYED AIRBAG,
RUBBER GLOVES, EYE PROTECTION, AND A
LONG-SLEEVED SHIRT SHOULD BE WORN. THERE
MAY BE DEPOSITS ON THE AIRBAG UNIT AND
OTHER INTERIOR SURFACES. IN LARGE DOSES,
THESE DEPOSITS MAY CAUSE IRRITATION TO THE
SKIN AND EYES.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, USE EXTREME CARE TO PREVENT ANY
FOREIGN MATERIAL FROM ENTERING THE SIDE
CURTAIN AIRBAG, OR BECOMING ENTRAPPED
BETWEEN THE SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG CUSHION
AND THE HEADLINER. FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS
WARNING COULD RESULT IN OCCUPANT INJURIES
UPON AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT.
(1) Position the side curtain airbag into the vehicle
as a unit.
(2) Align all three (standard cab) or five (quad cab)
plastic push-in fasteners that secure the extruded
plastic side curtain airbag channel with their holes
in the roof side rail and push them straight into the
roof rail until they are fully seated (Fig. 53).
(3) Working from the rear of the vehicle to the
front, install and tighten the four screws (standard
cab) or six screws (quad cab) that secure the side cur-
tain airbag inflator and manifold tube brackets to the
nuts in the roof rail. Tighten the screws to 5 N´m (40
in. lbs.).
(4) Reconnect the body wire harness connector for
the side curtain airbag to the connector receptacle at
the back of the airbag inflator. Be certain the connec-
tor is fully engaged and latched.
(5) Engage the two side curtain airbag tether plas-
tic retainer clips into the A-pillar.
(6) Install and tighten the screw that secures the
side curtain airbag tether retainer to the base of the
A-pillar near the belt line. Tighten the screw to 6
N´m (55 in. lbs.).
(7) Reinstall the headliner into the vehicle. (Refer
to 23 - BODY/INTERIOR/HEADLINER - INSTALLA-
TION).
(8) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The supplemental restraint system verifi-
cation test procedure should be performed following
service of any supplemental restraint system compo-
nent. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - VERIFICATION TEST).
8O - 58 RESTRAINTSDR
SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG (Continued)

SIDE IMPACT SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
On vehicles equipped with the optional side curtain
airbags, two side impact sensors are used, one each
for the left and right sides of the vehicle (Fig. 54).
These sensors are mounted remotely from the bi-di-
rectional safing sensor that is internal to the Airbag
Control Module (ACM). The side impact sensors are
secured within the right and left B-pillars just above
the front seat belt retractors and behind the lower
B-pillar trim in the passenger compartment.
The impact sensor housing has an integral connec-
tor receptacle, an integral mounting stud, and an
integral locating tab. A cavity in the center of the
molded black plastic impact sensor housing contains
the electronic circuitry of the sensor, which includes
an electronic communication chip and an electronic
impact sensor. Potting material fills the cavity to seal
and protect the internal electronic circuitry and com-
ponents. The side impact sensors are each connected
to the vehicle electrical system through a dedicated
take out and connector of the body wire harness.
The side impact sensors cannot be repaired or
adjusted and, if damaged or faulty, they must be
replaced.
OPERATION
The side impact sensors are electronic accelerome-
ters that sense the rate of vehicle deceleration, which
provides verification of the direction and severity of
an impact. Each sensor also contains an electronic
communication chip that allows the unit to commu-
nicate the sensor status as well as sensor fault infor-
mation to the microprocessor in the Airbag Control
Module (ACM). The ACM microprocessor continu-
ously monitors all of the passive restraint system
electrical circuits to determine the system readiness.
If the ACM detects a monitored system fault, it sets
a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and controls the
airbag indicator operation accordingly.
The impact sensors each receive battery current
and ground through dedicated left and right sensor
plus and minus circuits from the ACM. The impact
sensors and the ACM communicate by modulating
the voltage in the sensor plus circuit. The hard wired
circuits between the side impact sensors and the
ACM may be diagnosed and tested using conven-
tional diagnostic tools and procedures. However, con-
ventional diagnostic methods will not prove
conclusive in the diagnosis of the ACM or the impact
sensors. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate
means to diagnose the impact sensors, the ACM, and
the electronic message communication between the
sensors and the ACM requires the use of a DRBIIIt
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - STANDARD CAB
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
Fig. 54 Side Impact Sensor
1 - SENSOR
2 - CONNECTOR RECEPTACLE
3 - STUD
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 59

WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, NEVER STRIKE OR DROP THE SIDE
IMPACT SENSOR, AS IT CAN DAMAGE THE IMPACT
SENSOR OR AFFECT ITS CALIBRATION. THE SIDE
IMPACT SENSOR ENABLES THE SYSTEM TO
DEPLOY THE SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAGS. IF AN
IMPACT SENSOR IS ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED
DURING SERVICE, THE MODULE MUST BE
SCRAPPED AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR
IMPROPER SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT DEPLOY-
MENT.
(1) Adjust the front seat to its most forward posi-
tion for easiest access to the lower B-pillar trim.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(3) Remove the front outboard seat belt and retrac-
tor from the inside of the B-pillar. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/FRONT OUTBOARD
SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR - REMOVAL - STAN-
DARD CAB).
(4) Remove the nut that secures the side impact
sensor stud to the inner B-pillar (Fig. 55).(5) Reach through the retractor mounting hole in
the inner B-pillar to access the side impact sensor
and disengage the locating pin and mounting stud
from the holes in the inner B-pillar.
(6) Pull the side impact sensor out of the B-pillar
far enough to access and disconnect the body wire
harness connector for the sensor from the sensor con-
nector receptacle.
(7) Remove the side impact sensor from the B-pil-
lar.
REMOVAL - QUAD CAB
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, NEVER STRIKE OR DROP THE SIDE
IMPACT SENSOR, AS IT CAN DAMAGE THE IMPACT
SENSOR OR AFFECT ITS CALIBRATION. THE SIDE
IMPACT SENSOR ENABLES THE SYSTEM TO
DEPLOY THE SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAGS. IF AN
IMPACT SENSOR IS ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED
DURING SERVICE, THE MODULE MUST BE
SCRAPPED AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR
IMPROPER SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT DEPLOY-
MENT.
(1) Adjust the front seat to its most forward posi-
tion for easiest access to the lower B-pillar trim.
(2) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Wait two minutes for the system capacitor to
discharge before further service.
(3) Remove the nut that secures the side impact
sensor stud to the inner B-pillar (Fig. 56).
(4) Reach through the large hole above the retrac-
tor mounting hole in the inner B-pillar to access the
side impact sensor and disengage the locating pin
and mounting stud from the holes in the inner B-pil-
lar.
Fig. 55 Side Impact Sensor Remove/Install -
Standard Cab
1 - SIDE IMPACT SENSOR
2 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
3 - B-PILLAR
4 - NUT
8O - 60 RESTRAINTSDR
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR (Continued)

(5) Pull the side impact sensor out through the
large hole in the B-pillar far enough to access and
disconnect the body wire harness connector for the
sensor from the sensor connector receptacle.
(6) Remove the side impact sensor from the B-pil-
lar.
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - STANDARD CAB
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, NEVER STRIKE OR DROP THE SIDE
IMPACT SENSOR, AS IT CAN DAMAGE THE IMPACT
SENSOR OR AFFECT ITS CALIBRATION. THE SIDE
IMPACT SENSOR ENABLES THE SYSTEM TO
DEPLOY THE SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAGS. IF AN
IMPACT SENSOR IS ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED
DURING SERVICE, THE MODULE MUST BE
SCRAPPED AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR
IMPROPER SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT DEPLOY-
MENT.
(1) Position the side impact sensor to the retractor
mounting hole in the inner B-pillar (Fig. 55).
(2) Reconnect the body wire harness connector for
the side impact sensor to the sensor connector recep-
tacle.
(3) Reach through the retractor mounting hole in
the inner B-pillar to position and engage the locating
pin and the stud on the side impact sensor to the
locating slot and mounting hole from the inside of
the B-pillar.
(4) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
side impact sensor stud to the inner B-pillar. Tighten
the nut to 8 N´m (70 in. lbs.).
(5) Reinstall the front outboard seat belt and
retractor to the inside of the B-pillar. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS/FRONT OUTBOARD
SEAT BELT & RETRACTOR - INSTALLATION -
STANDARD CAB).
(6) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The supplemental restraint system verifi-
cation test procedure should be performed following
service of any supplemental restraint system compo-
nent. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - VERIFICATION TEST).
INSTALLATION - QUAD CAB
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
Fig. 56 Side Impact Sensor Remove/Install - Quad
Cab
1 - B-PILLAR
2 - SIDE IMPACT SENSOR
3 - NUT
4 - WIRE HARNESS CONNECTOR
DRRESTRAINTS 8O - 61
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR (Continued)

WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, NEVER STRIKE OR DROP THE SIDE
IMPACT SENSOR, AS IT CAN DAMAGE THE IMPACT
SENSOR OR AFFECT ITS CALIBRATION. THE SIDE
IMPACT SENSOR ENABLES THE SYSTEM TO
DEPLOY THE SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAGS. IF AN
IMPACT SENSOR IS ACCIDENTALLY DROPPED
DURING SERVICE, THE MODULE MUST BE
SCRAPPED AND REPLACED WITH A NEW UNIT.
FAILURE TO OBSERVE THIS WARNING COULD
RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL, INCOMPLETE, OR
IMPROPER SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT DEPLOY-
MENT.
(1) Position the side impact sensor to the large
hole above the retractor mounting hole in the inner
B-pillar (Fig. 56).
(2) Reconnect the body wire harness connector for
the side impact sensor to the sensor connector recep-
tacle.(3) Reach through the large hole above the retrac-
tor mounting hole in the inner B-pillar to position
and engage the locating pin and the stud on the side
impact sensor to the locating slot and mounting hole
from the inside of the B-pillar.
(4) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
side impact sensor stud to the inner B-pillar. Tighten
the nut to 8 N´m (70 in. lbs.).
(5) Do not reconnect the battery negative cable at
this time. The supplemental restraint system verifi-
cation test procedure should be performed following
service of any supplemental restraint system compo-
nent. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/RESTRAINTS -
STANDARD PROCEDURE - VERIFICATION TEST).
8O - 62 RESTRAINTSDR
SIDE IMPACT SENSOR (Continued)

COLUMN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
page page
COLUMN
DESCRIPTION..........................6
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STEERING
COLUMN.............................7
REMOVAL.............................7
INSTALLATION..........................9
IGNITION SWITCH
DESCRIPTION..........................9
OPERATION............................9
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - IGNITION
SWITCH.............................9
REMOVAL.............................10
INSTALLATION.........................11
KEY-IN IGNITION SWITCH
DESCRIPTION.........................11
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - IGNITION
SWITCH AND KEY LOCK CYLINDER.......11
KEY CYLINDER
REMOVAL.............................12
INSTALLATION.........................12GEAR SHIFT LEVER
REMOVAL.............................12
INSTALLATION.........................12
UPPER STEERING COUPLING
REMOVAL.............................13
INSTALLATION.........................13
LOWER STEERING COUPLING
REMOVAL
REMOVAL - ALL LD & HD EXCEPT 4X4 HD . 14
REMOVAL - 4X4 HD...................14
INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION - ALL LD & HD EXCEPT 4X4
HD.................................14
INSTALLATION - 4X4 HD................15
STEERING WHEEL
REMOVAL.............................15
INSTALLATION.........................15
TILT LEVER KNOB RELEASE
REMOVAL.............................16
INSTALLATION.........................16
COLUMN
DESCRIPTION
NOTE: The steering column on vehicles with an
automatic transmission may not be equipped with
an internal locking shaft that allows the ignition key
cylinder to be locked with the key. Alternative meth-
ods of locking the steering wheel for service will
have to be used.
The tilt and standard column (Fig. 1) has been
designed to be serviced as an assembly; less wiring,
switches, shrouds, steering wheel, etc. Most steering
column components can be serviced without remov-
ing the steering column from the vehicle.
To service the steering wheel, switches or airbag,
refer to Restraints and follow all WARNINGS and
CAUTIONS.
WARNING: THE AIRBAG SYSTEM IS A SENSITIVE,
COMPLEX ELECTRO-MECHANICAL UNIT. BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO DIAGNOSE, REMOVE OR INSTALL
THE AIRBAG SYSTEM COMPONENTS YOU MUST
FIRST DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE. THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DIS-
CHARGE. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT INACCIDENTAL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG AND
POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY. THE FASTENERS,
SCREWS, AND BOLTS, ORIGINALLY USED FOR
THE AIRBAG COMPONENTS, HAVE SPECIAL COAT-
INGS AND ARE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR THE
AIRBAG SYSTEM. THEY MUST NEVER BE
REPLACED WITH ANY SUBSTITUTES. ANYTIME A
NEW FASTENER IS NEEDED, REPLACE WITH THE
CORRECT FASTENERS PROVIDED IN THE SERVICE
PACKAGE OR FASTENERS LISTED IN THE PARTS
BOOKS.
CAUTION: Do not hammer on steering column
shaft. This may cause damage to the shaft or bear-
ing.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove the pivot bolts
to disassemble the tilting mechanism. Do not
remove shaft lock plate or plate retainer. This will
damage the column.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove or modify the
park lock slider or link.
19 - 6 COLUMNDR

NOTE: When servicing the steering wheel after
removing the old bolt a new bolt must be used
when installing.
NOTE: When servicing the coupler a new bolt must
be used when installing.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STEERING
COLUMN
If the vehicle is involved in a front end collision/the
air bag has deployed the column must be inspected.
This inspection will determine if the Column has col-
lapsed. Inspect the column mounting capsules visu-
ally and manually push and pull them to check for
separation or fractures. If capsules are fractured or
have moved the column MUST be replaced.
REMOVAL
WARNING: BEFORE SERVICING THE STEERING
COLUMN THE AIRBAG SYSTEM MUST BE DIS-
ARMED. REFER TO ELECTRICAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM FOR SERVICE PROCEDURES. FAILURE TO DO
SO MAY RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL DEPLOYMENT OF
THE AIRBAG AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.CAUTION: All fasteners must be torqued to specifi-
cation to ensure proper operation of the steering
column.
(1) Position the front wheelsstraight ahead.
(2) Disconnect the negative (ground) cable from
the battery.
(3) Remove the two switches from the steering
wheel.
(4) Remove the airbag, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - REMOVAL).
(5) Remove the steering wheel with special tool
CJ98±1 or an appropriate steering wheel puller.
CAUTION: Ensure the puller bolts are fully engaged
into the steering wheel and not into the clock-
spring, before attempting to remove the wheel. Fail-
ure to do so may damage the steering wheel/
clockspring.
(6) Remove the steering column opening cover
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/STEER-
ING COLUMN OPENING COVER - REMOVAL).
(7) Remove the tilt lever.
(8) Remove the column shrouds (Fig. 2).
(9) Remove the clock spring, (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING -
REMOVAL).
(10) Disconnect the wiring harness to the column.
Fig. 1 STEERING COLUMN
1 - LOCK CYLINDER
2 - GEAR SHIFT LEVER
3 - MOUNTING HOLES
4 - STEERING COLUMN
5 - TILT LEVER
Fig. 2 UPPER & LOWER SHROUDS
1 - UPPER SHROUD
2 - LOWER SHROUD
DRCOLUMN 19 - 7
COLUMN (Continued)

(17) Remove the steering column assembly from
the vehicle. (Fig. 7)
INSTALLATION
WARNING: BEFORE SERVICING THE STEERING
COLUMN THE AIRBAG SYSTEM MUST BE DIS-
ARMED. REFER TO ELECTRICAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM FOR SERVICE PROCEDURES. FAILURE TO DO
SO MAY RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL DEPLOYMENT OF
THE AIRBAG AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY.
CAUTION: All fasteners must be torqued to specifi-
cation to ensure proper operation of the steering
column.
(1) Position the steering column on the dash panel
support and loosely install the mounting nuts.
(2) Firmly slide the steering column upward
against the studs in dash panel and hand tighten the
nuts.
(3) Install the steering shaft coupler on the steer-
ing shaft and loosely install anewbolt.
(4) Center steering column in dash opening and
tighten mounting nuts to 28 N´m (250 in. lbs.).
NOTE: Torque the upper left nut first then the lower
right nut. Then torque the lower left nut then the
upper right nut.
NOTE: A new bolt must be used for reinstallation.
(5) Tighten the coupler bolt to 57 N´m (42 ft. lbs.).(6) Install a new brake light switch (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/LAMPS/LIGHTING - EXTERIOR/
BRAKE LAMP SWITCH - REMOVAL).
(7) Install the shifter cable. (Refer to 21 - TRANS-
MISSION/TRANSAXLE/AUTOMATIC - 32RH/GEAR
SHIFT CABLE - INSTALLATION)
(8) Connect the wiring harness to the column.
(9) Install the SKIM module.
(10) Install the clockspring(Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/RESTRAINTS/CLOCKSPRING - REMOVAL).
(11) Install the shrouds.
(12) Install the steering column opening cover
(Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/STEER-
ING COLUMN OPENING COVER - INSTALLA-
TION).
(13) Align the spline on the wheel hub to shaft.
(14) Then install the steering wheel and install a
newbolt. Tighten the bolt to 61 N´m (45 ft. lbs.).
(15) Install the airbag (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - INSTALLATION).
(16) Install the two steering wheel switches.
(17) Install the tilt lever handle.
(18) Install the negative battery terminal.
(19) Test the operation of the horn, Electronic
PRNDL Indicator, lights and any other functions that
are steering column operated.
IGNITION SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The ignition switch is located on the steering col-
umn. It is used as the main on/off switching device
for most electrical components. The mechanical key
cylinder is used to engage/disengage the electrical
ignition switch.
OPERATION
Vehicles equipped with an automatic trans-
mission and a steering column mounted shifter:
an interlock device is located within the shift cable.
This interlock device is used to lock the transmission
shifter in the PARK position when the key cylinder is
in any position and the brake pedal is not depressed.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - IGNITION SWITCH
TEST AND REPAIR
If the key removal effort is excessive on a vehicle
with a automatic transmission first adjust the shift
linkage, (Refer to 21 - TRANSMISSION/TRANS-
AXLE/AUTOMATIC - 46RE/GEAR SHIFT CABLE -
ADJUSTMENTS).
If the ignition switch effort is excessive remove the
ignition key cylinder from the steering column. (Refer
to 19 - STEERING/COLUMN/LOCK CYLINDER
Fig. 7 STEERING COLUMN
1 - Steering Wheel
2 - Key Cylinder
3 - Gear Shift Lever
4 - Steering Column
5 - Tilt Lever Cable
DRCOLUMN 19 - 9
COLUMN (Continued)

HOUSING - REMOVAL). Check the turning effort of
the key cylinder. If the ignition key cylinder effort is
excessive replace the key cylinder.
REMOVAL
SERVICE PRECAUTIONS
NOTE: The steering column on vehicles equipped
with an automatic transmission is not equipped
with an internal locking shaft with the ignition cyl-
inder. Alternative methods of locking the steering
wheel for service will have to be used.
The tilt and standard column (Fig. 8) have been
designed to be serviced as an assembly; without wir-
ing, switches, shrouds, steering wheel, etc. Most
steering column components can be serviced without
removing the steering column from the vehicle.
Safety goggles should be worn at all times when
working on steering columns.
To service the steering wheel, switches or airbag,
Refer to Electrical Restraints and follow all WARN-
INGS and CAUTIONS.
WARNING: THE AIRBAG SYSTEM IS A SENSITIVE,
COMPLEX ELECTRO-MECHANICAL UNIT. BEFORE
ATTEMPTING TO DIAGNOSE, REMOVE OR INSTALL
THE AIRBAG SYSTEM COMPONENTS YOU MUST
FIRST DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY
NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE. THEN WAIT TWO
MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DIS-
CHARGE. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN
ACCIDENTAL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG ANDPOSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY. THE FASTENERS,
SCREWS, AND BOLTS, ORIGINALLY USED FOR
THE AIRBAG COMPONENTS, HAVE SPECIAL COAT-
INGS AND ARE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR THE
AIRBAG SYSTEM. THEY MUST NEVER BE
REPLACED WITH ANY SUBSTITUTES. ANYTIME A
NEW FASTENER IS NEEDED, REPLACE WITH THE
CORRECT FASTENERS PROVIDED IN THE SERVICE
PACKAGE OR FASTENERS LISTED IN THE PARTS
BOOKS.
CAUTION: Do not hammer on steering column
shaft. This may cause damage to the shaft or bear-
ing.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to remove the pivot bolts
to disassemble the tilting mechanism.
The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for
cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed
first before removing ignition switch.
(1) Remove the negative (ground) cable from the
battery.
(2) Disable the airbag, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
RESTRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the lower and upper shrouds.
(4) Remove key cylinder. (Refer to 19 - STEER-
ING/COLUMN/LOCK CYLINDER HOUSING -
REMOVAL).
(5) Disconnect the lower clockspring connectors.
(6) Remove the wire retainer from the tilt lever
bracket.
(7) Remove the tilt lever mounting screws to gain
access to the ignition switch mounting screws. (Fig.
9)
Fig. 8 STEERING COLUMN
1 - KEY CYLINDER
2 - GEAR SHIFT LEVER
3 - MOUNTING HOLES
4 - STEERING COLUMN
5 - IGNITION SWITCH
Fig. 9 IGNITION SWITCH WITH TILT
1 - IGNITION SWITCH
2 - TILT LEVER MECHANISM
19 - 10 COLUMNDR
IGNITION SWITCH (Continued)

(8) For columns without tilt remove the bracket to
gain access to the ignition switch mounting screws.
(Fig. 10)
(9) Disconnect the electrical connector at rear of
ignition switch (Fig. 11).
(10) Remove ignition switch mounting screw.
(11) Using a small screwdriver, push on locking
tab and remove switch from steering column.
INSTALLATION
The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for
cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed
first before installing ignition switch.
(1) Before installing ignition switch, rotate the slot
in the switch to the ON position.(2) Connect the electrical connector to rear of the
ignition switch. Make sure that locking tabs are fully
seated into wiring connector.
(3) Position switch to column and install the
mounting screw. Tighten screw to 3 N´m (26 in. lbs.).
(4) Install the tilt lever bracket mounting screws.
Tighten screws to 4.5 N´m (40 in. lbs.).
(5) If the column is non-tilt install the bracket.
Tighten screws to 4.5 N´m (40 in. lbs.) (Fig. 10)
(6) Position the wire retainer into the tilt lever
bracket.
(7) Reconnect the lower clockspring connectors.
(8) Install the key cylinder.
(9) Install steering column upper and lower
shrouds.
(10) Enable the airbag system. (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/RESTRAINTS/DRIVER AIRBAG - INSTAL-
LATION).
KEY-IN IGNITION SWITCH
DESCRIPTION
The key-in ignition switch is integral to the igni-
tion switch, which is mounted on the left side of the
steering column. It closes a path to ground for the
Central Timer Module (CTM) when the ignition key
is inserted in the ignition key cylinder and the driver
door ajar switch is closed (driver door is open). The
key-in ignition switch opens the ground path when
the key is removed from the ignition key cylinder.
The ground path is also opened when the driver door
ajar switch is open (driver door is closed).
The key-in ignition switch cannot be repaired and,
if faulty or damaged, the entire ignition switch must
be replaced, (Refer to 19 - STEERING/COLUMN/IG-
NITION SWITCH - REMOVAL).
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - IGNITION SWITCH
AND KEY LOCK CYLINDER
ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS
For ignition switch electrical schematics, refer to
Ignition Switch in the appropriate section of Electri-
cal Wiring Diagrams.
MECHANICAL DIAGNOSIS (KEY DIFFICULT TO
ROTATE)
(Refer to 19 - STEERING/COLUMN/IGNITION
SWITCH - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
Fig. 10 IGNITION SWITCH WITHOUT TILT
1 - Ignition Switch Mounting Screws
2 - Non-Tilt Mounitng Bracket Screws
Fig. 11 IGNITION SWITCH
1 - Ignition Switch
2 - Ignition Switch Mounting Screws
DRCOLUMN 19 - 11
IGNITION SWITCH (Continued)