Steering Column & Steering Column Switches Dodge Pickup R1500

DESCRIPTION - EXCEPT SRT-10

Note. The steering column on vehicles with an automatic transmission may not be equipped with an internal locking shaft that allows the ignition key cylinder to be locked with the key. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.

The tilt and standard column (Scheme 1) has been designed to be serviced as an assembly; less wiring, switches, shrouds, steering wheel, etc. Most steering column components can be serviced without removing the steering column from the vehicle.

To service the steering wheel, switches or airbag, refer to ( AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS ) and follow all WARNINGS and CAUTIONS.

Scheme 1

Note. When servicing the steering wheel after removing the old bolt a new bolt must be used when installing.

Note. When servicing the coupler a new bolt must be used when installing.

DESCRIPTION - SRT-10

The SRT-10 column has no START position on the key cylinder. The push starter button switch is mounted on the Instrument panel center stack. All SRT-10 columns are Tilt columns with manual transmissions.

If the vehicle is involved in a front end collision/the air bag has deployed the column must be inspected. This inspection will determine if the Column has collapsed. Inspect the column mounting capsules visually and manually push and pull them to check for separation or fractures. If capsules are fractured or have moved the column MUST be replaced.

REMOVAL

Scheme 2

Scheme 3

Scheme 4

Scheme 5

Scheme 6

Scheme 7

1. Position the front wheels straight ahead.
2. Disconnect the negative (ground) cable from the battery.
3. Remove the two switches from the steering wheel.
4. Remove the airbag. (Refer to «AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS»(/dodge/pickup-r1500/1997-2012/remont/airbag/#air-bag-restraint-systems) ).
5. Remove the steering wheel with special tool CJ98-1 or an appropriate steering wheel puller. CAUTION: Ensure the puller bolts are fully engaged into the steering wheel and not into the clockspring, before attempting to remove the wheel. Failure to do so may damage the steering wheel/clockspring.
6. Remove the steering column opening cover.
7. Remove the tilt lever.
8. Remove the column shrouds. (Scheme 2)
9. Remove the clock spring. (Refer to «AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS»(/dodge/pickup-r1500/1997-2012/remont/airbag/#air-bag-restraint-systems) ).
10. Disconnect the wiring harness to the column.
11. Remove the shift cable from the column shift lever actuator. (Scheme 3) Refer to «SERVICING - A/T»(/dodge/pickup-r1500/1997-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transmission-servicing).
12. Release the shift cable from the column bracket and remove it from the bracket.
13. Remove the SKIM module in order to disconnect the electrical connector.
14. Remove the upper steering shaft coupler bolt and slide the shaft down. (Scheme 4) and (Scheme 5)
15. Remove the brake light switch and discard.
16. Remove the four steering column mounting nuts. (Scheme 6)
17. Remove the steering column assembly from the vehicle. (Scheme 7)

INSTALLATION

1. Position the steering column on the dash panel support and loosely install the mounting nuts.
2. Firmly slide the steering column upward against the studs in dash panel and hand tighten the nuts.
3. Install the steering shaft coupler on the steering shaft and loosely install a NEW bolt.
4. Center steering column in dash opening and tighten mounting nuts to 28 N.m (250 in. lbs.). NOTE: Torque the upper left nut first then the lower right nut. Then torque the lower left nut then the upper right nut. NOTE: A new bolt must be used for reinstallation.
5. Tighten the coupler bolt to 57 N.m (42 ft. lbs.).
6. Install a new brake light switch.
7. Install the shifter cable. Refer to (Scheme 3)
8. Connect the wiring harness to the column.
9. Install the SKIM module.
10. Install the clockspring. (Refer to «AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS»(/dodge/pickup-r1500/1997-2012/remont/airbag/#air-bag-restraint-systems) ).
11. Install the shrouds.
12. Install the steering column opening cover.
13. Align the spline on the wheel hub to shaft.
14. Then install the steering wheel and install a NEW bolt. Tighten the bolt to 61 N.m (45 ft. lbs.).
15. Install the airbag. (Refer to «AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS»(/dodge/pickup-r1500/1997-2012/remont/airbag/#air-bag-restraint-systems) ).
16. Install the two steering wheel switches.
17. Install the tilt lever handle.
18. Install the negative battery terminal.
19. Test the operation of the horn, Electronic PRNDL Indicator, lights and any other functions that are steering column operated.

DESCRIPTION

The ignition switch is located on the steering column. It is used as the main on/off switching device for most electrical components. The mechanical key cylinder is used to engage/disengage the electrical ignition switch.

OPERATION

Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission and a steering column mounted shifter: an interlock device is located within the shift cable. This interlock device is used to lock the transmission shifter in the PARK position when the key cylinder is in any position and the brake pedal is not depressed.

TEST AND REPAIR

If the key removal effort is excessive on a vehicle with a automatic transmission, first adjust the shift linkage. Refer to SERVICING - A/T .

If the ignition switch effort is excessive, remove the ignition key cylinder from the steering column. (Refer to KEY CYLINDER ). Check the turning effort of the key cylinder. If the ignition key cylinder effort is excessive, replace the key cylinder.

SERVICE PRECAUTIONS

Note. The steering column on vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission is not equipped with an internal locking shaft with the ignition cylinder. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.

The tilt and standard column (Scheme 8) have been designed to be serviced as an assembly; without wiring, switches, shrouds, steering wheel, etc. Most steering column components can be serviced without removing the steering column from the vehicle.

Scheme 8

Safety goggles should be worn at all times when working on steering columns.

To service the steering wheel, switches or airbag, (Refer to AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS ) and follow all WARNINGS and CAUTIONS.

The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed first before removing ignition switch. Refer to KEY CYLINDER .

Scheme 9

Scheme 10

Scheme 11

1. Remove the negative (ground) cable from the battery.
2. Disable the airbag, (Refer to «AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS»(/dodge/pickup-r1500/1997-2012/remont/airbag/#air-bag-restraint-systems) ).
3. Remove the lower and upper shrouds.
4. Remove key cylinder. (Refer to «KEY CYLINDER»(/dodge/pickup-r1500/1997-2012/remont/steering-column/#steering-column-steering-column-switches) ).
5. Disconnect the lower clockspring connectors.
6. Remove the wire retainer from the tilt lever bracket.
7. Remove the tilt lever mounting screws to gain access to the ignition switch mounting screws. (Scheme 9)
8. For columns without tilt, remove the bracket to gain access to the ignition switch mounting screws. (Scheme 10)
9. Disconnect the electrical connector at rear of ignition switch. (Scheme 11)
10. Remove ignition switch mounting screw.
11. Using a small screwdriver, push on locking tab and remove switch from steering column.

The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal. The key cylinder must be removed first before installing ignition switch.

1. Before installing ignition switch, rotate the slot in the switch to the ON position.
2. Connect the electrical connector to rear of the ignition switch. Make sure that locking tabs are fully seated into wiring connector.
3. Position switch to column and install the mounting screw. Tighten screw to 3 N.m (26 in. lbs.).
4. Install the tilt lever bracket mounting screws. Tighten screws to 4.5 N.m (40 in. lbs.).
5. If the column is non-tilt, install the bracket. Tighten screws to 4.5 N.m (40 in. lbs.). (Scheme 10)
6. Position the wire retainer into the tilt lever bracket.
7. Reconnect the lower clockspring connectors.
8. Install the key cylinder.
9. Install steering column upper and lower shrouds.
10. Enable the airbag system. (Refer to «AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS»(/dodge/pickup-r1500/1997-2012/remont/airbag/#air-bag-restraint-systems) ).

The ignition switch attaches to the lock cylinder housing on the end opposite the lock cylinder. (Scheme 12) For ignition switch terminal and circuit identification, refer to appropriate Wiring Diagram article.

Scheme 12

Scheme 13

Scheme 14

Scheme 15

Scheme 16

Scheme 17

1. Disconnect negative cable from battery.
2. Place key cylinder in RUN position. Through the hole in the lower shroud, depress lock cylinder retaining tab and remove key cylinder. (Scheme 13)
3. Remove upper and lower shrouds from steering column.
4. Disconnect electrical connectors from ignition switch. (Scheme 14)
5. Remove the 2 screws on the top of the multifunction switch and relocate. (Scheme 15)
6. Remove ignition switch mounting screw (Scheme 16) with a #10 Torx(R) bit.
7. Pull ignition switch from steering column. (Scheme 17)

Scheme 18

1. Ensure the ignition switch is in the RUN position and the actuator shaft in the lock housing is in the RUN position.
2. Carefully install the ignition switch. The switch will snap over the retaining tabs (Scheme 18) Install mounting screw (Scheme 16)
3. Install electrical connectors to ignition switch.
4. Install the multifunction switch and tighten the 2 screws. (Scheme 15)
5. Install upper and lower shrouds.
6. Install key cylinder (cylinder retaining tab will depress only in the RUN position).
7. Connect negative cable to battery.
8. Check for proper operation of ignition switch and key-in warning switch.

The key-in ignition switch is integral to the ignition switch, which is mounted on the left side of the steering column. It closes a path to ground for the Central Timer Module (CTM) when the ignition key is inserted in the ignition key cylinder and the driver door ajar switch is closed (driver door is open). The key-in ignition switch opens the ground path when the key is removed from the ignition key cylinder. The ground path is also opened when the driver door ajar switch is open (driver door is closed).

The key-in ignition switch cannot be repaired and, if faulty or damaged, the entire ignition switch must be replaced, (Refer to IGNITION SWITCH (EXCEPT SRT-10) ) or ( IGNITION SWITCH - SRT-10 ).

ELECTRICAL DIAGNOSIS

For ignition switch electrical schematics, refer to Ignition Switch in the appropriate Wiring Diagrams.

The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder removal.

Scheme 19

1. Disconnect negative cable from battery.
2. Remove upper and lower covers (shrouds) from steering column.
3. Place shifter in PARK position.
4. A retaining pin (Scheme 19) is located at side of key cylinder assembly.

Scheme 20

1. Rotate key to RUN position.
2. Press in on retaining pin while pulling key cylinder from ignition switch. (Scheme 20)

The ignition key must be in the key cylinder for cylinder installation.

1. Install the key cylinder into the housing using care to align the end of the key cylinder with the ignition switch.
2. Push the key cylinder in until it clicks.
3. Replace the upper and lower shrouds.
4. Reconnect the battery.

Scheme 21

1. Remove the knee blocker.
2. Remove the upper and lower column shroud.
3. Remove and discard the brake light switch.
4. Loosen the column bolts and lower the column enough to allow clearance for the gear shift lever removal.
5. Disconnect the overdrive switch harness (if equipped).
6. Disconnect the shift cable from the shift lever.
7. Remove the SKIM.
8. Remove the gear shift lever mounting screws and remove the lever. (Scheme 21)
9. Remove the blocker pin from the inhibit link slot. (Scheme 21)

Scheme 22

1. Install the lever assembly using care to install the pin in the blocker to slider slot (Scheme 22) and install the mounting screws and tighten to 12 N.m (105 in. lbs.).
2. Cycle the key from ACC to RUN and ensure that the blocker does not stick or bind.
3. Turn the key to the OFF position and ensure that the shifter will not pull from the PARK position.
4. Connect the over drive switch harness (if equipped). NOTE: Route and tie off harness to original location.
5. Connect the shift cable to the lever.
6. Ensure the gear shift lever and transmission are in the PARK position and snap the cable adjust clip in place.
7. Install a new brake light switch.
8. Install the SKIM and halo.
9. Install the upper and lower column shroud.
10. Install the column back into place and tighten.
11. Install the knee blocker.

Scheme 23

Scheme 24

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable. NOTE: The steering column on vehicles with an automatic transmission may not be equipped with an internal locking shaft that allows the ignition key cylinder to be locked with the key. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.
2. Lock the steering wheel with the tire in the straight position.
3. Remove and discard the lower pinch bolt.
4. Lower the steering coupler shaft from the column.
5. Remove the upper steering coupling shaft seal by pushing in the four tangs securing it to the panel. (Scheme 23)
6. Remove and discard the lower coupler pinch bolt from the lower steering coupling shaft. (Scheme 24)
7. Remove the upper steering coupling shaft from the vehicle. (Scheme 24)

1. Install the upper steering coupling shaft to the vehicle. (Scheme 24)
2. Install the upper steering coupling shaft seal by pushing it in securing the four tangs to the panel. (Scheme 23) NOTE: Note: A new steering coupling shaft pinch bolt for the upper and lower shafts must be used.
3. Install the steering coupler shaft to the column. (Scheme 24)
4. Install the upper pinch bolt use new bolt and tighten to 57 N.m (42 ft. lbs).
5. Install the shaft to the lower coupler. (Scheme 24)
6. Install the lower pinch bolt use new bolt and tighten to 57 N.m (42 ft. lbs).
7. Unlock the steering wheel.
8. Reconnect the negative battery cable.

Scheme 25

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Raise and support the vehicle. NOTE: The steering column on vehicles with an automatic transmission may not be equipped with an internal locking shaft that allows the ignition key cylinder to be locked with the key. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.
3. Lock the steering wheel with the tire in the straight position.
4. Remove the left front tire and wheel assembly.
5. Mark both coupler connections for proper installation.
6. Remove and discard the upper coupler pinch bolt.
7. Remove and discard the lower coupler pinch bolt.
8. Remove the lower steering shaft coupler. (Scheme 25)

Scheme 26

Scheme 27

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Raise and support the vehicle. NOTE: The steering column on vehicles with an automatic transmission may not be equipped with an internal locking shaft that allows the ignition key cylinder to be locked with the key. Alternative methods of locking the steering wheel for service will have to be used.
3. Lock the steering wheel with the tire in the straight position.
4. Remove the left front tire and wheel assembly.
5. Remove and discard the upper coupler pinch bolt. (Scheme 26)
6. Remove and discard the lower coupler pinch bolt. (Scheme 27)
7. Remove the lower steering shaft coupler. (Scheme 26)

ALL LD & HD EXCEPT 4X4 HD

1. Install the coupler to the steering rack & pinion using the marks made in the removal process.
2. Install the coupler to the intermediate shaft using the marks made in the removal process. NOTE: New pinch bolts must be used for reinstallation.
3. Install the lower pinch bolt and tighten to 57 N.m (42 ft. lbs.).
4. Install the upper pinch bolt and tighten to 57 N.m (42 ft. lbs.).
5. Install the left front tire and wheel assembly.
6. Lower the vehicle.
7. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
8. Unlock the steering wheel.

4X4 HD

1. Install the coupler to the steering gear.
2. Install the coupler to the intermediate shaft. NOTE: New pinch bolts must be used for reinstallation.
3. Install the lower pinch bolt and tighten to 28 N.m (250 in. lbs.).
4. Install the upper pinch bolt and tighten to 57 N.m (42 ft. lbs.).
5. Install the left front tire and wheel assembly.
6. Lower the vehicle.
7. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
8. Unlock the steering wheel.

Scheme 28

1. Disable and remove the driver's side airbag. (Refer to «AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS»(/dodge/pickup-r1500/1997-2012/remont/airbag/#air-bag-restraint-systems) ).
2. Partially remove the steering wheel bolt and leave the bolt in the column.
3. Install puller CJ98-1 or equivalent using the top of the bolt to push on. (Scheme 28)
4. Remove and discard the steering wheel bolt.
5. Remove the steering wheel.

Note. Do not reuse the old steering wheel bolt (a new bolt must be used)

1. Install steering wheel to the column NOTE: Be certain that the steering wheel mounting bolt is tightened to the proper torque specification to ensure proper clockspring operation.
2. Install the new steering wheel bolt. Tighten the bolt to 61 N.m (45 ft. lbs.).
3. Install the driver's side air bag. (Refer to «AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS»(/dodge/pickup-r1500/1997-2012/remont/airbag/#air-bag-restraint-systems) ).

Scheme 29

Scheme 30

Scheme 31

1. Remove the tilt lever handle.
2. Remove the steering column opening cover.
3. Remove the lower shroud. NOTE: Use special care not to pry on the clockspring electrical connector when removing or installing the mounting screw located next to the clockspring.
4. Remove the two mounting screws from the tilt lever knob release bracket. (Scheme 29)
5. Disconnect the electrical harness plastic mounting tab from the bracket. (Scheme 29)
6. Unsnap the cable from the bracket. (Scheme 30)
7. Remove the end of the cable from the tilt lever knob release bracket. (Scheme 31)

1. Route the cable into the tilt lever release knob bracket. (Scheme 31)
2. Snap the cable end into the bracket. (Scheme 30) NOTE: Use special care not to pry on the clockspring electrical connector when removing or installing the mounting screw located next to the clockspring. NOTE: New screws should be used when installing the tilt lever release knob bracket to the column.
3. Install the tilt lever release knob bracket to the column and install the two new mounting screws. (Scheme 29) Tighten the two new screws to 4.5 N.m (40 in. lbs.).
4. Install the electrical harness plastic mounting tab to the bracket. (Scheme 29)
5. Install the lower shroud.
6. Install the steering column opening cover.
7. Install the tilt lever handle.

See also:
• AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
• SERVICING - A/T
• KEY CYLINDER