Removing and Installing/Replacing Lower Section of Steering Spindle

32 31 070 - Removing and installing or replacing lower section of steering spindle





Important!
There will no longer be an end stop once the steering spindle has been separated from the steering gear. The steering wheel can be turned without restriction.
To prevent the coil spring in the steering column from being damaged:
- Move steering wheel to straight-ahead position.
- Lock steering lock -> remove ignition key.

Necessary preliminary tasks:
- Remove storage compartment 51 16 392 - Removing and installing/replacing storage compartment in instrument panel trim (driver's side).
- Remove lower section of steering column trim Removing and Installing/Replacing Lower Section of Steering Column Trim.





Release nut (1) and remove screw (2).
Fold universal joint upwards.





Installation Note:
Position steering spindle (1) on steering gear.
Feed in screw and fit nut (2) but do not tighten down yet.

Important!
Press steering spindle (1) upwards as far as it will go (clearance approx. 2 mm) and tighten down nut (2).
Replace self-locking nut.
Tightening torque 32 31 2AZ [1][2]Specifications





Push the lower half of the joint and the bearing upward through the sleeve.





Unscrew bolt (1).

Installation Note:
Replace screw.
Tightening torque 32 31 4AZ [1][2]Specifications

Detach steering spindle lower section from steering column.





Important!
Steering columns differ depending on the version used:
- (1) Old version: measurement (A) approx. 3 mm.
Color: natural or blue
- (2) New version: measurement (A) approx. 8 mm.
Color: black





Important!
- Vehicles with DSC and old steering column:
Corrugated washer (1) must be fitted between steering angle sensor (2) and steering spindle lower section (3).
- Vehicles without DSC or with new steering column:
Corrugated washer is not required.





Important!
- Vehicles with old steering column and new steering spindle lower section (2):
Adapter ring (1) must be fitted.
- New steering column and new steering spindle lower section:
Adapter ring and corrugated washer are not required.





Installation Note:
Make sure that the screw hole in the lower steering column and the recess in the upper steering shaft are aligned flush. When assembled correctly, the upper steering shaft must be in position (1).