For 1990-2009 cars

# SMU - Revised Steering Wheel Removal Procedure

Subject: | Revised Steering Wheel Removal Procedure

Models: | 1999-2000 Oldsmobile Alero

| 1999-2000 Pontiac Grand Am

This bulletin is being issued to revise the Steering Wheel Removal Procedure. Please use the following to replace the existing information in the Power Steering System and Steering Wheel and Column-Tilt sub-sections of the Service Manual.

### Steering Wheel Replacement

#### Tools Required

• | J 1859-A Steering Wheel Puller

• | J 42120 Steering Wheel Puller Legs

#### Removal Procedure

Caution: Before servicing any electrical component, the ignition key must be in the OFF or LOCK position and all electrical loads must be OFF, unless otherwise instructed in these procedures. If a tool or equipment could easily come in contact with a live exposed electrical terminal, also disconnect the negative battery cable. Failure to follow these precautions may cause personal injury and/or damage to the vehicle or its components.

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

Caution: This vehicle is equipped with a Supplemental Inflatable Restraint (SIR) System. Failure to follow the correct procedure could cause the following conditions:

• | Air bag deployment

• | Personal injury

• | Unnecessary SIR system repairs

In order to avoid the above conditions, observe the following guidelines:

• | Refer to the SIR Component Views in order to determine if you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring.

• | If you are performing service on or near the SIR components or the SIR wiring, disable the SIR system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System in SIR.

2. Disable the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) system. Refer to Disabling the SIR System in SIR.
3. Remove the steering column trim covers. Refer to Steering Column Trim Cover Replacement -- On-Vehicle.
4. Remove the inflator module. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement in SIR.
5. Remove the steering wheel nut (1).

Notice: When removing the steering wheel with the specified steering wheel puller and steering wheel adapter legs, ensure than the left leg tab is up. This will prevent the steering wheel and puller from binding and prevent damage to the steering columns integrity.

6. Remove the steering wheel using the J 1859-A and J 42120.
7. Disconnect the electrical connectors (4) from the column.
8. Route the electrical connectors (4) through the steering wheel opening.
9. Remove the steering wheel (2) from the vehicle.

#### Installation Procedure

1. Route the electrical connectors (4) through the steering wheel opening.
2. Connect the electrical connector (4) to the steering column (3).
3. Install the steering wheel on the steering column (3).

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

4. Install the steering wheel nut (1) on the steering column (3).

Tighten
Tighten the nut to 37 N·m (27 lb ft).

5. Install the inflator module. Refer to Inflatable Restraint Steering Wheel Module Replacement in SIR.
6. Install the steering column trim covers. Refer to Steering Column Trim Cover Replacement -- On-Vehicle.
7. Enable the SIR system. Refer to Enabling the SIR System in SIR.
8. Connect the negative battery cable.