Ignition DODGE RAM 1500 1998 2.G Workshop Manual

stream. The spraying action atomizes the fuel, add-
ing it to the air entering the combustion chamber.
The nozzle (outlet) ends of the injectors are posi-
tioned into openings in the intake manifold just
above the intake valve ports of the cylinder head.
The engine wiring harness connector for each fuel
injector is equipped with an attached numerical tag
(INJ 1, INJ 2 etc.). This is used to identify each fuel
injector.
The injectors are energized individually in a
sequential order by the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). The PCM will adjust injector pulse width by
switching the ground path to each individual injector
on and off. Injector pulse width is the period of time
that the injector is energized. The PCM will adjust
injector pulse width based on various inputs it
receives.
Battery voltage is supplied to the injectors through
the ASD relay.
The PCM determines injector pulse width based on
various inputs.
OPERATION - PCM OUTPUT
The nozzle ends of the injectors are positioned into
openings in the intake manifold just above the intake
valve ports of the cylinder head. The engine wiring
harness connector for each fuel injector is equipped
with an attached numerical tag (INJ 1, INJ 2 etc.).
This is used to identify each fuel injector with its
respective cylinder number.
The injectors are energized individually in a
sequential order by the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). The PCM will adjust injector pulse width by
switching the ground path to each individual injector
on and off. Injector pulse width is the period of time
that the injector is energized. The PCM will adjust
injector pulse width based on various inputs it
receives.
Battery voltage (12 volts +) is supplied to the injec-
tors through the ASD relay. The ASD relay will shut-
down the 12 volt power source to the fuel injectors if
the PCM senses the ignition is on, but the engine is
not running. This occurs after the engine has not
been running for approximately 1.8 seconds.
The PCM determines injector on-time (pulse width)
based on various inputs.
REMOVAL
(1) Remove fuel rail. Refer to Fuel Injector Rail
Removal.
(2) Disconnect clip(s) that retain fuel injector(s) to
fuel rail (Fig. 12).
INSTALLATION
(1) Install fuel injector(s) into fuel rail assembly
and install retaining clip(s).(2) If same injector(s) is being reinstalled, install
new o-ring(s).
(3) Apply a small amount of clean engine oil to
each injector o-ring. This will aid in installation.
(4) Install fuel rail. Refer to Fuel Rail Installation.
(5) Start engine and check for fuel leaks.
FUEL PUMP RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The 5±pin, 12±volt, fuel pump relay is located in
the Power Distribution Center (PDC). Refer to the
label on the PDC cover for relay location.
OPERATION
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) energizes
the electric fuel pump through the fuel pump relay.
The fuel pump relay is energized by first applying
battery voltage to it when the ignition key is turned
ON, and then applying a ground signal to the relay
from the PCM.
Whenever the ignition key is turned ON, the elec-
tric fuel pump will operate. But, the PCM will shut-
down the ground circuit to the fuel pump relay in
approximately 1±3 seconds unless the engine is oper-
ating or the starter motor is engaged.
Fig. 12 INJECTOR RETAINING CLIP
1 - PLIERS
2 - INJECTOR CLIP
3 - FUEL INJECTOR - TYPICAL
4 - FUEL RAIL - TYPICAL
DRFUEL INJECTION - GAS 14 - 27
FUEL INJECTOR (Continued)

(2) Disconnect electrical connector at throttle body
(Fig. 31).
(3) Remove 4 throttle body mounting bolts (Fig.
31).
(4) Remove throttle body from intake manifold.
(5) Check condition of throttle body o-ring (Fig.
32).(6) If the throttle body has been changed, the fol-
lowing procedure must be performed:
(a) Disconnect negative battery cable from bat-
tery. Leave cable disconnected for approximately 90
seconds.
(b) Reconnect cable to battery.
(c) Turn ignition switch ON, but do not crank
engine.
(d) Leave ignition switch ON for a minimum of
10 seconds. This will allow PCM to learn throttle
body electrical parameters.
INSTALLATION
3.7L V-6
(1) Check condition of throttle body-to-intake man-
ifold o-ring. Replace as necessary.
(2) Clean mating surfaces of throttle body and
intake manifold.
(3) Install throttle body-to-intake manifold o-ring.
(4) Install throttle body to intake manifold.
(5) Install 3 mounting bolts. Tighten bolts to 12
N´m (105 in. lbs.) torque.
(6) Install control cables.
(7) Install electrical connectors.
(8) Install necessary vacuum lines.
(9) Install air plenum.
Fig. 28 THROTTLE BODY MOUNTING BOLTS - 3.7L
V-6
1 - THROTTLE BODY
2 - MOUNTING BOLTS (3)
Fig. 29 THROTTLE BODY O-RING - 3.7L V-6
1 - INTAKE MANIFOLD
2 - THROTTLE BODY O-RING
Fig. 30 THROTTLE BODY MOUNTING BOLTS - 4.7L
V-8
1 - MOUNTING BOLTS (3)
2 - THROTTLE BODY
3 - IAT SENSOR CONNECTOR
4 - IAC MOTOR CONNECTOR
5 - TPS CONNECTOR
DRFUEL INJECTION - GAS 14 - 37
THROTTLE BODY (Continued)

4.7L V-8
(1) Clean throttle body-to-intake manifold o-ring.(2) Clean mating surfaces of throttle body and
intake manifold.
(3) Install throttle body to intake manifold by posi-
tioning throttle body to manifold alignment pins.
(4) Install three mounting bolts. Tighten bolts to
12 N´m (105 in. lbs.) torque.
(5) Install control cables.
(6) Install vacuum line to throttle body.
(7) Install electrical connectors.
(8) Install air plenum.
5.7L V-8
CAUTION: Do not use spray (carb) cleaners on any
part of the throttle body. Do not apply silicone lubri-
cants to any part of the throttle body.
(1) Clean and check condition of throttle body-to-
intake manifold o-ring.
(2) Clean mating surfaces of throttle body and
intake manifold.
(3) Install throttle body to intake manifold by posi-
tioning throttle body to manifold alignment pins.
(4) Install 4 mounting bolts. Refer to Torque Spec-
ifications.
(5) Install electrical connector.
(6) Install air plenum.
(7)If the throttle body has been changed, the
following procedure must be performed:
(a) Disconnect negative battery cable from bat-
tery. Leave cable disconnected for approximately 90
seconds.
(b) Reconnect cable to battery.
(c) Turn ignition switch ON, but do not crank
engine.
(d) Leave ignition switch ON for a minimum of
10 seconds. This will allow PCM to learn throttle
body electrical parameters.
THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE
REMOVAL
3.7L V-6
CAUTION: Be careful not to damage or kink cable
core wire (within cable sheathing) while servicing
accelerator pedal or throttle cable.
(1) From inside vehicle, hold up accelerator pedal.
Remove plastic cable retainer (clip) and throttle cable
core wire from upper end of pedal arm (Fig. 1). Plas-
tic cable retainer snaps into top of pedal arm.
(2) Remove cable core wire at pedal arm.
(3) From inside vehicle, remove metal clip holding
cable to dashpanel (Fig. 1).
Fig. 31 5.7L V-8 THROTTLE BODY
1 - THROTTLE BODY
2 - ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
3 - SILICONE SEAL
4 - MOUNTING BOLTS (4)
Fig. 32 5.7L V-8 THROTTLE BODY O-RING
1 - INTAKE MANIFOLD
2 - THROTTLE BODY O-RING
14 - 38 FUEL INJECTION - GASDR
THROTTLE BODY (Continued)

(11) Install air resonator tube to throttle body.
(12) Before starting engine, operate accelerator
pedal to check for any binding.
5.7L V-8
(1) Attach cable to Accelerator Pedal Position Sen-
sor (APPS). Refer to APPS Removal / Installation.
(2) Push cable housing into rubber grommet and
through opening in dash panel.
(3) From inside vehicle, install clip holding cable
to dashpanel (Fig. 1).
(4) From inside vehicle, slide throttle cable core
wire into opening in top of pedal arm.
(5) Push cable retainer (clip) into pedal arm open-
ing until it snaps in place.
(6) Before starting engine, operate accelerator
pedal to check for any binding.
(7) If necessary, use DRB IIItScan Tool to erase
any APPS Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) from
PCM.
THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The 3-wire Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is
mounted on the throttle body and is connected to the
throttle blade shaft.
The 5.7L V-8 engine does not use a separate TPS
on the throttle body.
OPERATION
The 5.7L V-8 engine does not use a separate Throt-
tle Position Sensor (TPS) on the throttle body.
The 3±wire TPS provides the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM) with an input signal (voltage) that
represents the throttle blade position of the throttle
body. The sensor is connected to the throttle blade
shaft. As the position of the throttle blade changes,
the output voltage of the TPS changes.
The PCM supplies approximately 5 volts to the
TPS. The TPS output voltage (input signal to the
PCM) represents the throttle blade position. The
PCM receives an input signal voltage from the TPS.
This will vary in an approximate range of from .26
volts at minimum throttle opening (idle), to 4.49 volts
at wide open throttle. Along with inputs from other
sensors, the PCM uses the TPS input to determine
current engine operating conditions. In response to
engine operating conditions, the PCM will adjust fuel
injector pulse width and ignition timing.The PCM needs to identify the actions and position
of the throttle blade at all times. This information is
needed to assist in performing the following calcula-
tions:
²Ignition timing advance
²Fuel injection pulse-width
²Idle (learned value or minimum TPS)
²Off-idle (0.06 volt)
²Wide Open Throttle (WOT) open loop (2.608
volts above learned idle voltage)
²Deceleration fuel lean out
²Fuel cutoff during cranking at WOT (2.608 volts
above learned idle voltage)
²A/C WOT cutoff (certain automatic transmis-
sions only)
REMOVAL
3.7L V6
The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) is mounted to
the throttle body (Fig. 37), or (Fig. 38).
(1) Remove air resonator tube at throttle body.
(2) Disconnect TPS electrical connector.
(3) Remove 2 TPS mounting screws.
(4) Remove TPS.
Fig. 37 TPS LOCATION - 3.7L V-6
1 - THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR (TPS)
2 - MOUNTING SCREWS
3 - IDLE AIR CONTROL MOTOR (IAC)
4 - MOUNTING SCREWS
DRFUEL INJECTION - GAS 14 - 41
THROTTLE CONTROL CABLE (Continued)

FUEL FILTER / WATER
SEPARATOR
DESCRIPTION
The fuel filter/water separator assembly is located
on left side of engine above the starter motor. The
assembly also includes the fuel heater, Water-In-Fuel
(WIF) sensor, and fuel transfer pump.
OPERATION
The fuel filter/water separator protects the fuel
injection pump by removing water and contaminants
from the fuel. The construction of the filter/separator
allows fuel to pass through it, but helps prevent
moisture (water) from doing so. Moisture collects at
the bottom of the canister.
Refer to the maintenance schedules in the owners
manual for the recommended fuel filter replacement
intervals.
For draining of water from canister, refer to Fuel
Filter/Water Separator Removal/Installation section.
A Water-In-Fuel (WIF) sensor is attached to the
side of fuel filter housing. Refer to Water-In-Fuel
Sensor Description/Operation.
The fuel heater is installed into the top of the fil-
ter/separator housing. Refer to Fuel Heater Descrip-
tion/Operation.
REMOVAL
Refer to maintenance schedules in this manual, or
the owners manual for recommended fuel filter
replacement intervals.
Draining water from fuel filter/water separa-
tor housing:
The housing drain valve (Fig. 3) serves two pur-
poses. One is topartiallythe drain filter housing of
excess water. The other is tocompletelythe drain
housing for fuel filter, drain valve, heater element, ,
water-in-fuel sensor replacement or transfer pump
replacement.
The filter housing should be partially drained
whenever the water-in-fuel warning lamp remains
illuminated. (Note that lamp will be illuminated for
approximately two seconds when ignition key is ini-
tially placed in ON position for a bulb check).(1) A drain hose (Fig. 3) is located at the bottom of
drain valve. Place drain pan under drain hose.
(2)With engine not running,rotate drain valve
handle counter-clockwise (rearward) to OPEN
(DRAIN) position. Hold drain valve open until all
water and contaminants have been removed and
clean fuel exits.
(3) If drain valve, fuel heater element or Water-In-
Fuel (WIF) sensor is being replaced, drain housing
completely. Dispose of mixture in drain pan according
to applicable regulations.
(4) After draining operation, rotate valve handle
clockwise (forward) to the CLOSE position.
(5)Fuel Filter Replacement:The fuel filter is
located inside of the fuel filter housing.
(a) Clean all debris from around canister.
(b) Remove filter lid (Fig. 4) using a socket.
Attach socket to large hex on top of lid (Fig. 4).
Rotate counter-clockwise for removal. Remove
o-ring. Discard o-ring.
(c) Remove filter element by twisting element
sideways from filter lid.
(6)Water-In-Fuel (WIF) Sensor Replacement:
The WIF sensor is located on the side of the fuel fil-
ter housing (Fig. 3).
(a) Disconnect electrical connector at sensor.
(b) Clean area around sensor.
(c) Remove sensor by rotating counter-clockwise.
(d) Check condition of sensor o-ring. Replace if
damaged.
(7)Fuel Heater Element Replacement:The
heater element is located in the fuel filter housing
(Fig. 3).
(a) Remove fuel filter. See previous steps.
(b) Disconnect electrical connector.
(c) Remove two T-15 Torx head mounting screws
from fuel heater element.
(d) Remove fuel heater.
(8)Drain Valve Replacement:The drain valve
assembly is located on the side of the fuel filter hous-
ing (Fig. 3).
(a) Disconnect drain hose from the fuel drain
valve.
(b) Remove 4 drain valve mounting screws (T-15
Torx head).
(c) Remove drain valve from filter housing.
INSTALLATION
Refer to maintenance schedules for recommended
fuel filter replacement intervals.
(1) Thoroughly clean inside of filter housing, filter
cap and all related components.
(2)Fuel Filter:
(a)The engine has a self-priming low-pres-
sure fuel system. Refer to Standard Proce-
dures-Fuel System Priming.
ENGINE ROTATING (BARRING) TOOL - #7471B
(ALSO PART OF KIT #6860)
14 - 50 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELDR
FUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL (Continued)

(b) Install new o-ring to canister lid and lubri-
cate o-ring with clean engine oil.
(c) Position new element to canister lid. Place
this assembly into canister by rotating clockwise.
(d) Tighten cap to 34 N´m (25 ft. lbs.) torque. Do
not overtighten cap.
(3)Water-In-Fuel (WIF) Sensor:
(a) Install new o-ring seal to WIF sensor.
(b) Apply a light film of clean oil to o-ring seal.
(c) Install sensor into housing.
(d) Tighten sensor to 2.5 N´m (25 in. lbs.) torque.
(e) Connect electrical connector to WIF sensor.
(4)Fuel Heater Element:
(a) Install fuel heater into fuel filter housing.
(b) Install fuel heater thermostat into fuel filter
housing.
(c) Install fuel heater mounting screws and
tighten to 1-1.5 N´m (13 in. lbs.) torque.
(d) Connect electrical connector to fuel heater
thermostat.
(e) Install new filter cover O-ring onto fuel filter
housing cover and lubricate with clean engine oil.
(f) Tighten fuel filter housing cover (lid) to 34
N´m (25 ft. lbs.).
(5)Drain Valve:
(a) Install 2 new o-rings to valve and filter hous-
ing.
(b) Lubricate with silicon grease.
(c) Install fuel drain valve.
(d) Install 4 mounting screws and tighten to
1±1.5 N´m (8±13 in. lbs.) torque.
(e) Connect drain hose to drain valve.
(6) Start engine and check for leaks.
FUEL HEATER
DESCRIPTION
The fuel heater assembly is located on the side of
the fuel filter housing (Fig. 3).
The heater/element assembly is equipped with a
temperature sensor (thermostat) that senses fuel
temperature. This sensor is attached to the fuel heat-
er/element assembly.
OPERATION
The fuel heater is used to prevent diesel fuel from
waxing during cold weather operation.
When the temperature is below 45  8 degrees F,
the temperature sensor allows current to flow to the
heater element warming the fuel. When the temper-
ature is above 75  8 degrees F, the sensor stops cur-
rent flow to the heater element.
Battery voltage to operate the fuel heater element
is supplied from the ignition switch and through the
fuel heater relay. Also refer to Fuel Heater Relay.
Fig. 3 FILTER HOUSING
1 - FILTER HOUSING
2 - FUEL HEATER AND THERMOSTAT
3 - FUEL HEATER MOUNTING SCREWS
4 - FUEL HEATER ELEC. CONNECTOR
5 - WIF SENSOR
6 - WIF SENSOR ELEC. CONNECTOR
7 - DRAIN HOSE
8 - DRAIN VALVE MOUNTING SCREWS
9 - DRAIN VALVE
Fig. 4 FILTER COVER (LID)
1 - FILTER COVER
2 - ATTACH SOCKET HERE
DRFUEL DELIVERY - DIESEL 14 - 51
FUEL FILTER / WATER SEPARATOR (Continued)

The fuel heater element and fuel heater relay
are not computer controlled.
The heater element operates on 12 volts, 300 watts
at 0 degrees F.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - FUEL HEATER
The fuel heater is used to prevent diesel fuel from
waxing during cold weather operation.
NOTE: The fuel heater element, fuel heater relay
and fuel heater temperature sensor are not con-
trolled by the Engine Control Module (ECM).
A malfunctioning fuel heater can cause a wax
build-up in the fuel filter/water separator. Wax
build-up in the filter/separator can cause engine
starting problems and prevent the engine from rev-
ving up. It can also cause blue or white fog-like
exhaust. If the heater is not operating in cold tem-
peratures, the engine may not operate due to fuel
waxing.
The fuel heater assembly is located on the side of
fuel filter housing.
The heater assembly is equipped with a built-in
fuel temperature sensor (thermostat) that senses fuel
temperature. When fuel temperature drops below 45
degrees   8 degrees F, the sensor allows current to
flow to built-in heater element to warm fuel. When
fuel temperature rises above 75 degrees   8 degrees
F, the sensor stops current flow to heater element
(circuit is open).
Voltage to operate fuel heater element is supplied
from ignition switch, through fuel heater relay (also
refer to Fuel Heater Relay), to fuel temperature sen-
sor and on to fuel heater element.
The heater element operates on 12 volts, 300 watts
at 0 degrees F. As temperature increases, power
requirements decrease.
A minimum of 7 volts is required to operate the
fuel heater. The resistance value of the heater ele-
ment is less than 1 ohm (cold) and up to 1000 ohms
warm.
TESTING
(1) Disconnect electrical connector from thermostat
(Fig. 3).
Ambient temperature must be below the circuit
close temperature. If necessary, induce this ambient
temperature by placing ice packs on thermostat to
produce an effective ambient temperature below cir-
cuit close temperature.
Measure resistance across two pins. Operating
range is 0.3 Ð 0.45 Ohms.
(2) If resistance is out of range, remove thermostat
and check resistance across terminal connections of
heater. The heater can be checked at room tempera-
ture. Operating range is 0.3 - 0.45 Ohms.(3) Replace heater if resistance is not within oper-
ating range.
(4) If heater is within operating range, replace
heater thermostat.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
The fuel heater/element/sensor assembly is located
inside of the fuel filter housing. Refer to Fuel Filter/
Water Separator Removal/Installation for procedures.
FUEL HEATER RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The fuel heater relay is located in Power Distribu-
tion Center (PDC) (Fig. 5). Refer to label on inside of
PDC cover for relay location.
OPERATION
Battery voltage to operate the fuel heater element
is supplied from the ignition switch through the fuel
heater relay.The fuel heater element and fuel
heater relay are not computer controlled.
REMOVAL
The fuel heater relay is located in the Power Dis-
tribution Center (PDC) (Fig. 6). Refer to label under
PDC cover for relay location.
(1) Remove PDC cover.
(2) Remove relay from PDC.
Fig. 5 POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER LOCATION
1 - CLIP
2 - BATTERY
3 - TRAY
4 - NEGATIVE CABLE
5 - POSITIVE CABLE
6 - CLIP
7 - FENDER INNER SHIELD
8 - POWER DISTRIBUTION CENTER
14 - 52 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELDR
FUEL HEATER (Continued)

CASCADE OVERFLOW VALVE
DESCRIPTION
The cascade overflow valve is located on the top/
rear side of the fuel injection pump (Fig. 25).
OPERATION
When the fuel control actuator (FCA) is opened,
the maximum amount of fuel is being delivered to
the fuel injection pump. The cascade valve regulates
how much excess fuel is used for lubrication of the
injection pump, and is also used to route excess fuel
through the drain circuit and back into the fuel tank.
REMOVAL
REMOVAL/INSTALLATION
The cascade overflow valve is not serviced sepa-
rately.
WATER IN FUEL SENSOR
DESCRIPTION
The Water-In-Fuel (WIF) sensor is located on the
side of the fuel filter/water separator canister (Fig.
26).
OPERATION
The sensor sends an input to the Engine Control
Module (ECM) when it senses water in the fuel filter/
water separator. As the water level in the filter/sep-
arator increases, the resistance across the WIF
sensor decreases. This decrease in resistance is sent
as a signal to the ECM and compared to a high
water standard value. Once the value reaches 30 to
40 kilohms, the ECM will activate the water-in-fuel
warning lamp through CCD bus circuits. This all
takes place when the ignition key is initially put in
the ON position. The ECM continues to monitor the
input while the engine is running.
REMOVAL
The Water-In-Fuel (WIF) sensor is located at the
side of fuel filter/water separator canister. Refer to
Fuel Filter/Water Separator Removal/Installation for
WIF sensor removal/installation procedures.
Fig. 25 OVERFLOW VALVE
1 - BANJO BOLTS
2 - PUMP MOUNTING NUTS (3)
3 - FUEL INJECTION PUMP
4 - CASCADE OVERFLOW VALVE
Fig. 26 FILTER HOUSING
1 - FILTER HOUSING
2 - FUEL HEATER AND THERMOSTAT
3 - FUEL HEATER MOUNTING SCREWS
4 - FUEL HEATER ELEC. CONNECTOR
5 - WIF SENSOR
6 - WIF SENSOR ELEC. CONNECTOR
7 - DRAIN HOSE
8 - DRAIN VALVE MOUNTING SCREWS
9 - DRAIN VALVE
14 - 66 FUEL DELIVERY - DIESELDR

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

(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)