Steering Column: Description and Operation

DESCRIPTION






This vehicle uses a tilt-type steering column. Two styles are available, one is for floor shift vehicles and the other is for column shift vehicles.
The steering column used on this vehicle, has been designed to be serviced as an assembly; less wiring, switches, clockspring, gear shift lever, shift ignition interlock, brake interlock solenoid (column shift only), shrouds and steering wheel. These components can be serviced without removing the steering column from the vehicle.

BRAKE TRANSMISSION SHIFT INTERLOCK SOLENOID
Column shift vehicles have a Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) solenoid mounted on the steering column. The BTSI solenoid works in conjunction with the brake lamp switch and will not allow the steering column shift lever to be moved out of the PARK position without the brake pedal being applied. For Description And Operation, Diagnosis And Testing, and Removal And Installation information, refer to Transmission and Drivetrain.

OPERATION
Turning of the steering wheel mounted to the column shaft, is transferred down the shaft, through the upper coupler and intermediate shaft to the power steering gear pinion shaft. The gear then moves the front strut assemblies steering the vehicle.