Bring new life or unique flare to a General Motors vehicle by replacing its steering column. With even minor automotive knowledge, anyone can rebuild the steering column of an old vehicle or update the features on a car to give it more pizazz. A steering column that has been damaged in an accident or is non-existent after auto theft can also be rebuilt. You will need to peruse a GM automotive parts catalogs or salvage yards to find the right parts for your year, make and model of the vehicle you are repairing.
Unbolt the steering column. On the interior side of the column you will find two bolts. Unscrew them. Below that plastic panel are five more bolt. Unscrew them. Remove the two nuts that hold the column mast in place on the dashboard.
Pop the automobile's hood to access the nut and bolt on the flange clamp of the steering column. Disconnect the linkage rod and remove the nut and bolt. Double check that all wires are unhooked for the steering column while under the hood.
Pull the steering column out of its location and place it on a table.
Detach the steering wheel from the column with the use of a puller and strong force. Once the wheel has been removed, unscrew the bolts that hold the stamped metal cover in place. This will bring you face-to-face with the lock plate.
Remove the lock plate with a GM issued lock plate removal tool by exerting a downward cranking force that detaches the spring clip.
Identify the coil spring and horn in the automotive user manual and remove them from the steering column.
Unscrew the turn-signal lever, switch and hazard light switch.
Pull the visible spring clip upward. This is the ignition-key buzzer. Once pulled up, insert the smallest flat-head screwdriver available to you into the small circle to break the casting flash. The ignition switch is now detached and can be removed from the column.
Examine the gears remaining for any signs of wear and tear or damage from previous vehicle maintenance.
Inspect each part that was removed to determine which need to be replaced. Order necessary parts to fit the year, make and model of your vehicle.
Reassemble the steering column with new parts using Steps 1 through 8 in reverse.
