If the ignition switch effort is excessive remove the ignition key cylinder from the steering column. (Refer to 19 -
STEERING/COLUMN/LOCK CYLINDER HOUSING - REMOVAL). Check the turning effort of the key cylinder. If the
ignition key cylinder effort is excessive replace the key cylinder. If the ignition key cylinder operates properly look for
the following conditions.
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 (4) have been designed
to be serviced as an assembly; without wiring,
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 MIN-
UTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN ACCIDEN-
TAL DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL INJURY. THE FASTENERS, SCREWS, AND
BOLTS, ORIGINALLY USED FOR THE AIRBAG COMPONENTS, HAVE SPECIAL COATINGS AND ARE SPE-
CIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR THE AIRBAG SYSTEM. THEY MUST NEVER BE REPLACED WITH ANY SUBSTI-
TUTES. 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 bearing.
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 - STEERING/COLUMN/LOCK CYLINDER HOUSING - REMOVAL).
5. Disconnect the lower clockspring connectors.
6. Remove the wire retainer from the tilt lever bracket.
8I - 22
IGNITION SYSTEM - SERVICE INFORMATION
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