Steering Columns - E36: Other BMW Z3 E36 facelift

SERVICE PRECAUTIONS

Observe the following precautions when working on air bag systems

1. When working around steering column and before any repairs are performed, disable SRS. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.
2. Always ensure the radio is off before disconnecting battery. This will prevent damage to radio microprocessor.
3. Before performing any body damage straightening or electrical arc-welding, disable SRS. See appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article. Disconnect front sensors.
4. Wait at least 5 minutes on vehicles up to 9/93 and 5 seconds for vehicles from 9/93 after SRS is disabled before servicing system as system maintains SRS voltage at least that long. Servicing SRS before waiting period may cause accidental air bag deployment and personal injury.
5. Always wear safety glasses and gloves when handling a deployed air bag module. Air bag module may contain sodium hydroxide deposits which are irritating to the skin.
6. Never use any SRS component that has been dropped from 3 feet or more.
7. To avoid air bag deployment when trouble shooting SRS, DO NOT use self-powered electrical test equipment such as battery-powered or AC-powered voltmeter, ohmmeter, etc. DO NOT perform any repair on any portion of SRS wiring circuit.
8. Always handle air bag module with trim cover away from your body. Always place air bag module on workbench with trim cover up, away from loose objects.
9. Never expose SRS components to temperatures greater than 212°F (100°C).
10. Never expose any SRS system components to cleaning agents such as solvents, gasoline, lye, etc.

CONTACT RING

To center contact ring by aligning arrows on front of steering wheel, press down hub center spring clip lock and hold it down. On bottom side of steering wheel, turn contact ring fully clockwise or counterclockwise until it stops. Turn contact ring back about 3 turns until arrows align, and release spring clip lock. Contact ring is in center position.

DRIVER-SIDE AIRBAG MODULE

For procedure, see appropriate AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article.

INTERLOCK CABLE

Unscrew interlock cable to remove. (Scheme 47)

Scheme 47

STEERING COLUMN SWITCHES

For removal and installation of steering column switches, see STEERING COLUMN under OVERHAUL.

STEERING WHEEL