Collapsed Steering Column Repair?

mixmastermike · June 10, 2009

I bought a 06 Sierra that needs some front end repair. The driver side airbag went off and the column has collapsed enough so the bracket that is glued to the column is a off so i'm unable to rebond it with the oem glue/adhesive. I was wondering if GM columns that have collapsed can be pulled back out. Anyone have any experience with this or on another type of vehicle.

MS3DALE · June 10, 2009

I'm pretty sure when a column has "collapsed" it must be replaced.

However heres some info. from the service manual....

Service Information

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Steering Column Accident Damage Inspection

Vehicles involved in accidents which result in the following conditions may also have a damaged or misaligned steering column:

- Frame damage

- Major body or sheet metal damage

- Where the steering column has been impacted

- Where supplemental inflatable restraint systems deployed

• Inspect the capsules on the steering column bracket assembly. All capsules must be securely seated in the bracket slots and checked for any loose conditions when pushed or pulled by hand. If not, the bracket should be replaced if bolted to the jacket assembly. If the bracket is welded to the jacket assembly replace the jacket assembly.

Inspect for jacket assembly collapse by measuring the distance from the lower edge of the upper jacket to a defined point on the lower jacket. Replace the jacket assembly if the measured dimensions are not within specifications.

Remove the SIR coil from the steering column and allow the coil to hang freely before the shaft is rotated. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Coil Replacement .

• Visually inspect the steering shaft for sheared injected plastic (1). If the steering shaft shows sheared plastic, replace the steering shaft.

• Inspect the steering shaft runout for any frame damage that could cause a bent steering shaft. Using a dial indicator at the lower end of the steering shaft, rotate the steering wheel. The runout must not exceed 1.60 mm (0.0625 in).

mixmastermike · June 10, 2009

Thanks for the quick reply.

Looks like i have to replace the column . I already have it removed and i'm pretty sure i could get a good deal on another one. I just heard people being able to pull some columns out. I works fine but just a bit short.