Steering column flexible coupling - removal and refitting

Suspension and steering systems / Steering column flexible coupling - removal and refitting

Removal
1 Disconnect the battery negative (earth) lead (refer to Chapter 5, Section 1).

2 Turn the steering wheel so that the front wheels are in the straight-ahead position.

Remove the ignition key, then turn the steering wheel slightly as necessary until the steering lock engages.

3 Unscrew the clamp plate bolt securing the steering column shaft to the flexible coupling.

Swivel the clamp plate around, and disengage it from the flexible coupling stub.

4 Carefully prise the rubber boot from the bulkhead, and withdraw it into the passenger compartment. Take care not to damage the sealing lip of the boot.

5 Using an Allen key, unscrew the clamp bolt securing the flexible coupling to the pinion shaft on the steering gear, and withdraw the coupling from inside the vehicle.

Refitting
6 Refitting is a reversal of the removal procedure, but tighten the clamp bolts to the specified torque. Make sure that the rubber boot engages correctly in the bulkhead and on the flexible coupling.