Steering Column Repair: 2003 Silverado 1500 Steering Column Rattle, gm recall, gm parts

Question
Hi, Jay - I was trying to follow the thread related to "2003 Silverado 2500 HD Steering Wheel Clunk" but couldn't find a link.  The writer referred to an aftermarket replacement intermediate steering shaft.  I have a 2003 Silverado 1500.  The mechanics I talked to said that GM has acknowledged a problem with clunking in the column and recommends removal and re-greasing of the column u-joints every 10k miles as the band-aid. Obviously this should be a GM recall item but I'm sure that won't happen.  Anyway, what are the options for replacement or fixes for this problem?

Thanks.
Bruce.


Answer
Hello Bruce,
You've done your homework well on the intermediate steering shaft. I have dealt with many people that feel the same as you in that this should be a recall from GM. So far they have succeeded in dodging the bullet as there have been no accidents caused directly by the shaft.
I could only offer the same advice for a band-aid. Lubricate or replace. GM Parts has made upgrades on replacements, but they do still require lubrication at regular intervals. The upgrade allows lubrication without having to remove it. (In other words, they knew they should have made a way to grease it, but they thought it would work a lot longer than it did.)

Let me know if I can be of further assistance.
Have a great day!
-Jay