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Steering Columns: Removal & Installation Lincoln Mark I

Steering Column 8 illustrations ~5956 words

REMOVAL & INSTALLATION

CAUTIONWhen battery is disconnected, vehicle computer and memory systems may lose memory data. Driveability problems may exist until computer systems have completed a relearn cycle. See COMPUTER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMATION section before disconnecting battery.

CONTACT ASSEMBLY (CLOCKSPRING) R & I

CAUTIONBEFORE servicing any air bag component, see SAFETY PRECAUTIONS and DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM .

Removal (Continental, Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, Mark VII, Mustang, Sable, Taurus, Town Car & Mark VIII)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable and disable air bag system. Ensure steering wheel is in straight ahead position. Mark steering shaft at 12-o'clock position for installation reference. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000).
  2. Remove lower moldings from instrument panel by unsnapping from retainer. Remove lower trim panel from instrument panel. Remove lower shroud. (Scheme 1), (Scheme 2) and (Scheme 3). Disconnect clockspring electrical connector from column harness.
  3. If contact assembly is to be re-used, tape contact assembly to prevent rotation of contact and internal damage to clockspring. see scheme 1 Remove contact assembly.

Installation (Continental, Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, Mark VII, Mustang, Sable, Taurus, Town Car & Mark VIII)

  1. Ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position. Ensure steering shaft alignment mark is at 12-o'clock position. Install contact assembly.
  2. If installing original contact assembly, remove tape from contact assembly. If installing NEW contact assembly, remove plastic locking insert.
  3. Install lower shroud and lower trim panel to instrument panel. Install lower moldings to instrument panel. Connect battery ground cable and back-up power supply. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.

Removal (Tempo & Topaz)

  1. Ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position. Turn lock cylinder to LOCK position. Rotate steering wheel counterclockwise, approximately 16 degrees, until locked.
  2. Disconnect battery ground cable and disable air bag system. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). Remove upper and lower shrouds. (Scheme 4)and (Scheme 5).
  3. Disconnect clockspring electrical connector from column harness. If contact assembly is to be re-used, tape contact assembly to prevent rotation. see scheme 2 Remove contact assembly from upper bearing retainer plate.

Installation (Tempo & Topaz)

  1. Install contact assembly onto upper bearing retainer plate. Ensure clockspring ground wire is attached at contact assembly lower retaining screw. Remove tape (original contact assembly) or locking insert (new contact assembly).
  2. Connect clockspring electrical connector to column harness. Install upper and lower shrouds. Install steering wheel. Connect clockspring electrical connector to terminal on air bag module. Install air bag module. Connect battery ground cable and back-up power supply. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.

Scheme 1

Scheme 1
Scheme 1

Scheme 2

Scheme 2
Scheme 2

Scheme 3

Scheme 3
Scheme 3

Scheme 4

Scheme 4
Scheme 4

Scheme 5

Scheme 5
Scheme 5

Removal (Continental, Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, Mark VII, Sable, Taurus, Town Car & Mark VIII)

  1. Ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position and steering shaft alignment mark is at 12 o'clock position. Disconnect battery ground cable. Disable air bag system.
  2. Remove air bag module retaining nuts from steering wheel. (Scheme 1)and (Scheme 2). Lift air bag module from steering wheel and disconnect clockspring electrical connector from module.
  3. Disconnect cruise control switch electrical connector from contact assembly electrical connector. Remove steering wheel bolt.
  4. Using Steering Wheel Puller (T67L-3600-A), remove steering wheel. As wheel is removed, route contact assembly and cruise control/horn wiring harnesses through steering wheel.

Installation (Continental, Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, Mark VII, Sable, Taurus, Town Car & Mark VIII)

  1. Ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position and steering shaft alignment mark is at 12 o'clock position.
  2. Route contact assembly and cruise control/horn wiring harnesses through steering wheel opening at 3 o'clock position. Position steering wheel onto steering shaft, ensuring steering wheel and shaft alignment marks are aligned. Install NEW steering wheel bolt. Tighten bolt to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(ref-42980-S37550902672001011700000) .
  3. Connect cruise control/horn switch electrical connector. Connect clockspring electrical connector to air bag module and install module. Connect battery ground cable. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.

Removal (Cougar, Escort, Mustang, Tempo, Thunderbird, Topaz & Tracer)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. On vehicles with air bag, disable air bag system. See «DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM»(ref-42980-S18262376172001011700000). On vehicles without air bag, remove horn cover and disconnect horn wire electrical connector. (Scheme 4)-9.
  2. On vehicles with air bag, remove air bag module and disconnect clockspring electrical connector from module.
  3. On Cougar and Thunderbird with cruise control, disconnect cruise control switch electrical connector.
  4. On vehicles without air bag, loosen steering wheel bolt 4-6 turns. DO NOT remove bolt. On vehicles with air bag, remove bolt and vibration damper (if equipped), and reinstall bolt loosely.
  5. Using Steering Wheel Puller (T67L-3600-A), loosen steering wheel from steering shaft. Remove steering wheel bolt. Remove steering wheel.

Scheme 6

Scheme 6
Scheme 6

Scheme 7

Scheme 7
Scheme 7

Installation (Cougar, Escort, Mustang, Tempo, Thunderbird, Topaz & Tracer)

To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten steering wheel bolt to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS . Check AIR BAG light for system faults.

Removal & Installation (Probe)

  1. Remove horn pad screws from back side of steering wheel. Remove horn pad. Remove steering wheel nut. (Scheme 8)
  2. Punch aligning marks on steering wheel and steering shaft. Firmly pull on steering wheel to remove. To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten steering wheel nut to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(ref-42980-S37550902672001011700000).

Scheme 8

Scheme 8
Scheme 8

Removal & Installation (Continental, Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, Mark VII, Mark VIII, Sable, Taurus & Town Car)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. On vehicles with tilt wheel, adjust steering wheel to lowest position and remove tilt lever. (Scheme 1)and (Scheme 2). Remove lock cylinder. See «LOCK CYLINDER (FUNCTIONAL)»(ref-42980-S34888653812001011700000) or «LOCK CYLINDER (NON-FUNCTIONAL)»(ref-42980-S18227760122001011700000).
  2. Remove upper and lower shrouds. Remove multifunction switch from housing. Remove wiring harness retainer and disconnect electrical connectors from multifunction switch. To install, reverse removal procedure.

Removal & Installation (Cougar & Thunderbird)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove lower left trim panel from knee level of instrument panel. Remove lower left reinforcement panel.
  2. Remove lower shroud. (Scheme 6) Remove steering column mounting nuts. Remove upper shroud. Disconnect multifunction switch electrical connector. Remove multifunction switch. To install, reverse removal procedure.

Removal & Installation (Escort, Mustang & Tracer)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. On Escort and Tracer, remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). Remove upper and lower shrouds. (Scheme 3)and (Scheme 7).
  2. Disconnect electrical connectors from multifunction switch and remove switch from housing. To install, reverse removal procedure.
  1. Remove steering column cover screws. Remove cover. Disconnect multifunction switch connector. Remove retaining screws. Remove multifunction switch. (Scheme 8)
  2. To install, reverse removal procedure. Install NEW steering wheel nut. Tighten nut to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(ref-42980-S37550902672001011700000).

Removal & Installation (Tempo & Topaz)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove shroud screws. (Scheme 4)and (Scheme 5). Loosen steering column mounting nuts enough to allow removal of upper shroud. Remove upper shroud.
  2. Remove turn signal lever by pulling lever straight out from switch. Peel back foam cover from multifunction switch. Disconnect electrical connectors from switch. Remove multifunction switch. To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten nuts to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(ref-42980-S37550902672001011700000).

Removal (Except Escort, Probe, Tempo, Topaz & Tracer)

Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove upper and lower shroud(s). (Scheme 1), (Scheme 2), (Scheme 3) and (Scheme 6). Remove tilt lever (if equipped). Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector. Turn lock cylinder to RUN position. Remove ignition switch mounting screws. Remove switch.

Installation (Except Escort, Probe, Tempo, Topaz & Tracer)

  1. Ensure pin slot in ignition switch is in RUN position. Turn lock cylinder to START position and release. This sets lock cylinder and actuator pin in RUN position. Disconnect ignition switch connector. Remove ignition switch mounting screws. Remove switch.
  2. Ensure ignition switch is in RUN position. Install ignition switch. Ensure actuator pin engagement is in switch slot. Connect ignition switch electrical connector. Install tilt lever (if equipped). Connect battery ground cable. Test ignition switch operation. Install steering column shroud and trim cover.

Removal & Installation (Escort & Tracer)

Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove steering wheel. See STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD. Remove multifunction switch. See MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH. (Scheme 7) Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector. Remove 3 mounting screws and remove ignition switch. To install, reverse removal procedure.

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove instrument cluster trim cover and lower panel. (Scheme 8) On vehicles with automatic transaxle, remove shift lock cable attaching bolt and disconnect cable from lock cylinder housing. Remove column lower panel.
  2. Remove column lower plate and side register duct. Remove tilt lever and housing (if equipped). Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector. Remove retainers to release connector from lock cylinder housing. Remove ignition switch from lock cylinder housing. To install, reverse removal procedure.
  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove lower shroud. (Scheme 4)and (Scheme 5). Remove mounting nuts and bolts from steering column mounting bracket. Lower column until ignition switch retaining screws are accessible.
  2. Remove upper shroud. Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector. Turn lock cylinder to RUN position. Remove ignition switch.
  1. Ensure actuator pin slot in ignition switch is in RUN position. Turn lock cylinder to START position and release. This sets lock cylinder in RUN position.
  2. Install ignition switch. Ensure actuator pin engagement is in switch pin slot. Connect ignition switch electrical connector. Connect battery ground cable. Test ignition switch operation. Install upper shroud. Mount steering column to column mounting bracket. Install lower shroud.

Removal (Except Escort, Probe & Tracer)

  1. On all models, disconnect battery ground cable.
  2. On Cougar, Tempo, Thunderbird and Topaz with tilt wheel, remove column end shroud by unsnapping shroud from retaining clip at 9 o'clock position of shroud. (Scheme 5)and (Scheme 6).
  3. On Cougar, Mustang, Tempo, Thunderbird and Topaz with non-tilt wheel, remove upper and lower shrouds. (Scheme 3), (Scheme 4) and (Scheme 6). On all models, disconnect key warning switch electrical connector.
  4. Turn lock cylinder to RUN position. Locate small hole in casting below lock cylinder. Insert a 1/8" drill bit or punch into hole. Press lock cylinder retaining pin while pulling lock cylinder out of housing.

Installation (Except Escort, Probe & Tracer)

Turn lock cylinder to RUN position. Press retaining pin and insert lock cylinder into housing. Ensure lock cylinder is fully seated and aligned with interlocking washer. Turn lock cylinder to OFF position. This permits retaining pin to extend into hole in housing. Check lock cylinder operation. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.

Note. On Escort, Probe & Tracer, lock cylinder and housing are serviceable only as a complete assembly.

Removal (Escort & Tracer)

  1. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000) . Remove multifunction switch. See «MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH»(ref-42980-S22448269262001011700000) . Disconnect ignition switch connector.
  2. Remove steering column mounting bracket bolts. Lower steering column. Using chisel, make slots in ignition lock mounting bolts. Remove bolts with screwdriver. Remove lock housing. Discard bolts.

Installation (Escort & Tracer)

  1. Position lock housing. Install NEW bolts, but DO NOT tighten completely. Verify operation of ignition lock. Reposition, if necessary. Tighten bolts until heads break off.
  2. Raise steering column and install column mounting bracket bolts. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure.

Remove steering wheel. See STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD . Remove multifunction switch. See MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH . Remove ignition switch. See IGNITION SWITCH . Remove lock cylinder housing mounting bolts. Remove lock cylinder housing as an assembly. To install, reverse removal procedure.

Removal (Continental)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable and disable air bag system. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). (Scheme 1) Remove upper and lower column shrouds. Disconnect electrical connector from key warning switch.
  2. Using channel lock pliers, twist lock cylinder cap until it separates from lock cylinder. Using a 3/8" (9.5 mm) drill bit, drill down middle of ignition lock key slot about 1 3/4" inch (44 mm) until lock cylinder breaks loose from base of lock cylinder.
  3. Remove retainer, washer, ignition switch and actuator. Remove shavings from column housing. Replace column housing if damaged.

Installation (Continental)

  1. Install lock cylinder gear, washer and retainer into lock cylinder bore in column housing. Ensure ignition switch is in RUN position by rotating lock cylinder gear fully clockwise to START position, then releasing. Ensure lock cylinder gear keyway is correctly aligned with slot in ignition switch shaft.
  2. Turn new lock cylinder to RUN position. Press lock cylinder retaining pin located on bottom of lock cylinder. Install lock cylinder. Ensure lock cylinder is fully seated and aligned in interlocking washer.
  3. Turn lock cylinder to OFF position to release retaining pin into hole in column housing. Connect electrical connectors to key warning switch and ignition switch. Install upper and lower column shrouds. Install steering wheel. Connect battery ground cable. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.

Removal & Installation (Cougar, Mustang, Tempo, Thunderbird & Topaz)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. On models with air bag, disable air bag system. See «DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM»(ref-42980-S18262376172001011700000). Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). (Scheme 3)- (Scheme 6).
  2. On Cougar, Thunderbird, Tempo and Topaz with tilt wheel, remove column end shroud by unsnapping shroud from retaining clip at 9 o'clock position of shroud. (Scheme 4)-8. CAUTION: Before removing contact assembly (clockspring), see «CONTACT ASSEMBLY (CLOCKSPRING)»(ref-42980-S15425691022001011700000) under SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
  3. On models with air bag, remove contact assembly. On all models, remove upper and lower shrouds. Disconnect key warning switch electrical connector.
  4. Using a 1/8" (3.17 mm) drill bit, drill out retaining pin located below lock cylinder on housing. DO NOT drill deeper than 1/2" (12.7 mm).
  5. Using a hammer and chisel, break end cap away from lock cylinder (end cap is key entry portion of lock cylinder with turning tabs on radius).
  6. Using a 3/8" (9.5 mm) drill bit, drill down middle of lock cylinder key slot about 1 3/4" (44 mm) until lock cylinder breaks loose from housing. Remove retainer, washer and lock cylinder gear from housing. See «LOCK CYLINDER GEAR»(ref-42980-S35911297632001011700000). Remove metal shavings from lock cylinder bore in housing.
  7. Replace housing if damaged. See «LOCK CYLINDER HOUSING»(ref-42980-S12719395042001011700000). To install, reverse removal procedure. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.

Removal & Installation (Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, Mark VII, Mark VIII, Sable, Taurus & Town Car)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable and disable air bag system. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000).
  2. Remove upper and lower shrouds. (Scheme 1)and (Scheme 2). Disconnect key warning switch electrical connector. Using channel lock pliers, twist lock cylinder cap until it separates from lock cylinder.
  3. Using a 3/8" (9.5 mm) drill bit, drill down middle of lock cylinder key slot approximately 1 3/4" (44 mm) until lock cylinder breaks loose from lock cylinder housing.
  4. Remove retainer, washer and lock cylinder gear from bore in lock cylinder housing. See «LOCK CYLINDER GEAR»(ref-42980-S35911297632001011700000). Remove ignition switch and actuator. Clean and inspect lock cylinder housing. Replace housing if damaged. To install, reverse removal procedure. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.
  1. With lock cylinder removed, carefully note position of retainer in lock cylinder bore. Using a screwdriver with a 90-degree bend on tip, insert tip between retainer and washer. Pull retainer out of lock cylinder bore.
  2. Insert screwdriver into double "D" slot of washer and rotate 90 degrees. Remove washer. Carefully note relation of lock cylinder gear to teeth position on lock actuator assembly. Last tooth of lock cylinder gear should be meshed with last tooth on lock actuator assembly. Remove lock cylinder gear. To install, reverse removal procedure.

See STEERING COLUMN OVERHAUL .

Removal (Cougar & Thunderbird Non-Tilt Wheel)

  1. Remove steering column. See «STEERING COLUMN R & I»(ref-42980-S04297141212001011700000).
  2. Remove multifunction switch. (Scheme 6) Remove 2 bolts securing lock cylinder housing to flange on outer tube. Remove upper bearing retaining plate. Remove upper bearing retaining ring. Remove sensor ring shield from bottom of column.
  3. Remove coil spring retainer, coil spring, sensor ring and shaft sleeve. Remove steering shaft and lock cylinder housing assembly from outer tube.
  4. Support edge of lock cylinder housing in vise. Strike steering shaft sharply with a plastic mallet to drive shaft out of bearing in lock cylinder housing.

Installation (Cougar & Thunderbird Non-Tilt Wheel)

  1. Hand press upper shaft bearing and sleeve into lock cylinder housing bearing bore. Slide lock cylinder housing over steering shaft and install 2 lock cylinder housing-to-outer tube retaining bolts. Tighten bolts to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(ref-42980-S37550902672001011700000) .
  2. Place a piece of pipe, 3/4" (19 mm) I.D. x 3 1/2" (89 mm) long, over steering shaft. Tighten steering wheel bolt until steering shaft is drawn up into bearing enough to allow installation of new upper bearing retaining ring. Remove retaining bolt and pipe from shaft. Install multifunction switch. Install lower bearing sleeve, sensor ring, spring and new retainer on lower steering shaft. Install column in vehicle.

Removal & Installation (Cougar & Thunderbird Tilt Wheel)

  1. Remove steering wheel and steering column. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000) and «STEERING COLUMN R & I»(ref-42980-S04297141212001011700000). Remove multifunction switch. (Scheme 6) Remove conical spring, upper bearing retaining plate and upper bearing retaining ring. CAUTION: Tilt casting is under spring pressure. To prevent rapid expansion of tilt spring, hold tilt casting stationary while removing pivot pins.
  2. Move tilt casting to uppermost position. Remove pivot pins using Pivot Pin Remover Handle (T67P-3D739-C) and Pivot Pin Remover (T67P-3D739-B or T67P-3D739-C). Lift tilt casting from lock cylinder housing and remove tilt spring.
  3. Remove steering sensor and sensor ring shield (if equipped). Remove "U" joint, coil spring retainer, coil spring and sensor ring from lower end of steering shaft. Remove steering shaft from outer tube. Remove lock cylinder housing from outer tube. To install, reverse removal procedure.

Removal (Tempo & Topaz Non-Tilt Wheel)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000).
  2. Remove upper and lower shrouds. (Scheme 4) Disconnect wiper switch, multifunction switch and key warning switch connectors. Remove wiper switch, multifunction switch and key warning switch. CAUTION: Before removing contact assembly, see «CONTACT ASSEMBLY (CLOCKSPRING)»(ref-42980-S15425691022001011700000) under SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
  3. On vehicles with air bag, disconnect contact assembly (clockspring) electrical connector at column harness. Tape contact assembly rotor to prevent rotation. see scheme 2 Remove contact assembly from upper bearing retainer plate. Remove upper bearing retainer plate, upper bearing retaining ring and upper bearing.
  4. Remove 2 lock cylinder housing-to-outer tube bolts. Rotate lock cylinder to START position and pull lock actuator out of clearance hole in outer tube. Remove lock cylinder housing from steering shaft.
  5. Remove retainer, washer and lock cylinder gear from lock cylinder housing. Remove key release button and rod from lock cylinder housing.

Installation (Tempo & Topaz Non-Tilt Wheel)

  1. Install key release button and rod on lock cylinder housing. Install lock actuator and lock cylinder gear into lock cylinder housing.
  2. To ensure an interference fit between upper bearing and steering shaft, use a punch to rough surface of steering shaft where bearing inner race rides on shaft. Install lock cylinder housing on steering shaft flange.
  3. Slide outer tube over steering shaft. Turn lock cylinder to START position to locate lock actuator through clearance hole in outer tube. Tighten lock cylinder housing-to-outer tube mounting bolts. Install upper bearing retaining ring and upper bearing retainer plate.
  4. On vehicles with air bag, install contact assembly (clockspring). Attach clockspring ground wire to lock cylinder housing and connect clockspring electrical connector to column harness. Ensure ground wire is attached at lower attaching screw.
  5. On all vehicles, install turn signal, wiper and key warning switches. Install upper and lower shrouds. Install steering wheel. Connect battery ground cable. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.

Removal (Tempo & Topaz Tilt Wheel)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove steering wheel and steering column. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000) and «STEERING COLUMN R & I»(ref-42980-S04297141212001011700000) under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.
  2. Remove multifunction switch. (Scheme 5) Remove conical spring, upper bearing retainer plate and upper bearing retaining ring. Adjust tilt casting to uppermost position to minimize tilt spring pressure. CAUTION: Tilt casting is under spring pressure. To prevent rapid expansion of tilt spring, hold tilt casting stationary while removing pivot pins.
  3. Remove pivot pins and tilt casting. Remove upper casting from lock cylinder housing. Remove connecting clamp from lower end of steering shaft. Pull steering shaft out of top end of outer tube. Remove lock cylinder housing from outer tube. Remove lock cylinder gear and actuator from housing. See «LOCK CYLINDER GEAR»(ref-42980-S35911297632001011700000).

Installation (Tempo & Topaz Tilt Wheel)

  1. Install lock cylinder housing on outer tube. Insert steering shaft into outer tube. Install tilt casting with tilt spring in position, ensuring tilt lock lever is latched in uppermost tilt position. Insert tilt pivot pins using "C" clamp. Pivot pins must be flush with outer casting surface.
  2. Install upper bearing retaining ring, upper bearing plate and conical spring. Press conical spring onto steering shaft until spring snaps into groove. Install multifunction switch.
  3. Connect steering shaft to intermediate shaft using connecting clamp at lower end of steering shaft. Install steering column. Install steering wheel. Connect battery ground cable. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.

Removal & Installation (Mustang)

  1. Remove steering column. See «STEERING COLUMN R & I»(ref-42980-S04297141212001011700000). Remove multifunction switch. See «MULTIFUNCTION SWITCH»(ref-42980-S22448269262001011700000). (Scheme 3)
  2. Remove upper bearing. See «SHAFT BEARING»(ref-42980-S21381078942001011700000). Remove lock cylinder housing from outer tube flange bracket. To install, reverse removal procedure.
  1. Disconnect battery ground cable and disable air bag system. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). CAUTION: Before removing contact assembly (clockspring), see «CONTACT ASSEMBLY (CLOCKSPRING)»(ref-42980-S15425691022001011700000) under SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
  2. Remove lower trim cover from instrument panel. Remove right and left lower moldings from instrument panel by unsnapping from retainer. Remove contact assembly. Remove tilt release lever by unscrewing from column. (Scheme 1)and (Scheme 2).
  3. Rotate lock cylinder to RUN position. Insert a 1/8" drill bit or punch into hole in lower shroud below lock cylinder. Press lock cylinder retaining pin with drill bit or punch while pulling lock cylinder out of housing.
  4. Remove upper and lower shrouds. Remove instrument panel reinforcement brace under column.
  5. On vehicles with column shift, disconnect shift indicator cable from lock cylinder housing by removing 2 retaining screws. Disconnect shift-indicator cable loop from hook on shift control assembly. On vehicles with console shift, remove interlock cable from steering column.
  6. Disconnect multifunction switch and ignition switch electrical connectors. Remove multifunction switch. Remove parking brake vacuum release switch.
  7. Remove lower pinch bolt from "U" joint connecting steering shaft to intermediate shaft. Disconnect shift cable from pivot on shift selector lever. Remove shift cable and bracket from lower column mounting bracket.
  8. While supporting steering column, remove 4 steering column mounting nuts. Remove steering column from vehicle. To install, reverse removal procedure. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.

Removal (Cougar & Thunderbird)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove lower finish panel retaining bolts. Carefully pull finish panel to disengage retaining clips.
  2. Remove lower reinforcement panel. Remove upper and lower shrouds. (Scheme 6) Disconnect wire from ignition key courtesy light. Disconnect cruise control electrical connector. Disconnect ignition switch electrical connector.
  3. Disconnect multifunction switch electrical connector. Disconnect steering sensor electrical connector (if equipped). Remove lower pinch bolt from "U" joint at lower end of steering shaft.
  4. Support steering column. Remove steering column mounting nuts. Disconnect hazard warning electrical connector. Remove starter interlock switch. Remove steering column from vehicle.

Installation (Cougar & Thunderbird)

  1. Position steering column in place at mounting bolts and loosely install one mounting nut. Install starter interlock switch. Connect hazard warning electrical connector.
  2. Install upper shroud. Align "U" joint at lower end of steering shaft with upper end of intermediate shaft. Install column mounting nuts. Install pinch bolt and tighten to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(ref-42980-S37550902672001011700000) .
  3. Connect steering sensor, multifunction switch, ignition switch and cruise control electrical connectors. Connect wire to ignition key courtesy light.
  4. Secure column wiring harness in place. Install lower shroud. Install lower reinforcement panel. Install lower finish panel. Connect battery ground cable.
  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). Disconnect multifunction switch and ignition switch electrical connectors. (Scheme 7) Remove shift cable mounting bracket and move cable and bracket aside. Remove 4 steering column upper mounting bracket bolts, and lower column.
  2. Remove 5 set plate mounting nuts and remove set plate. Remove intermediate shaft-to-pinion shaft bolt. Remove 2 steering column lower mounting bracket nuts and remove column. To install, reverse removal procedure.

Removal (Mustang)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. On models with air bag, disable air bag system. See «DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM»(ref-42980-S18262376172001011700000). Remove 2 nuts retaining steering shaft flexible coupling to flange on input shaft. (Scheme 3) Disengage metal safety strap and bolt assembly from flexible coupling.
  2. Remove upper and lower shrouds. Remove trim panel and hood release mechanism at knee level of instrument panel. Disconnect all electrical connectors from column. Remove 4 dust boot-to-floor panel screws at base of steering column.
  3. Remove 4 column-to-brake pedal support nuts. Lower column enough to clear mounting bolts and pull column out through hole in instrument panel.

Installation (Mustang)

  1. Insert steering column through hole in instrument panel. Align 4 bolts on brake pedal bracket with holes in column mounting bracket. Install nuts and tighten to 20-37 ft. lbs. (27-50 N.m).
  2. Connect all electrical connectors to column. Engage metal safety strap and bolt assembly to flange on steering gear input shaft. Tighten nuts to specification. DO NOT overtighten nuts.
  3. Install dust boot to floor panel at steering column base. Install steering wheel. Install upper and lower shrouds. Install hood release mechanism and trim panel at knee level of instrument panel. Connect battery ground cable. Check AIR BAG light system for faults.

Removal (Probe)

  1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000).
  2. Remove 2 column cover-to-instrument cluster face screws. (Scheme 8) Remove column cover. Remove 9 instrument cluster face-to-instrument cluster cover screws. Carefully pull instrument cluster face outward to access electrical connectors.
  3. Disconnect electrical connectors. Remove ignition illumination bulb. Remove instrument cluster face. Loosen 2 instrument cluster cover hinge screws. Remove 6 instrument cluster cover-to-instrument panel screws. Remove instrument cluster cover.
  4. Remove lower cover at knee level of instrument panel. Remove A/C-heater lap duct and defrost duct. Disconnect electrical connectors from turn-signal switch. Remove cinch bolt from upper "U" joint at lower end of steering shaft. Remove 2 mounting nuts from lower hinged bracket. Remove 4 instrument cluster support nuts.
  5. Support steering column. Remove 2 nuts and 4 bolts from upper steering column mounting brackets. Remove steering column.

Installation (Probe)

To install, reverse removal procedure. Tighten upper "U" joint cinch bolt to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .

  1. On vehicles with air bag, ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position. Turn lock cylinder to LOCK position and rotate steering wheel counterclockwise approximately 16 degrees until locked. Disable air bag system. See «DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM»(ref-42980-S18262376172001011700000).
  2. On all models, disconnect battery ground cable. Remove column cover at knee level of instrument panel. Remove cruise control module (if equipped) from instrument panel reinforcement. Remove lower shroud. (Scheme 4)and (Scheme 5).
  3. Loosen steering column mounting nuts enough to allow removal of upper shroud. Remove upper shroud. Disconnect all steering column electrical connectors. On vehicles with console shift, remove interlock cable from column.
  4. Remove bolt from steering shaft-to-intermediate shaft connecting clamp. Loosen connecting clamp.
  5. Remove steering column mounting nuts. Inspect mounting bracket clips. Replace, if damaged. Steering column will not function properly if clips are not installed.
  6. Pry open slot in steering shaft near connecting clamp. DO NOT use excessive force. Disengage steering shaft from intermediate shaft. Remove steering column.
  1. Engage steering shaft to intermediate shaft and loosely tighten connecting clamp nut and bolt.
  2. Ensure 2 clips are present on outer tube. Raise column into position at column mounting bracket. Install nuts and bolts and tighten loosely.
  3. On vehicles with console shift, install interlock cable to column. Connect all steering column electrical connectors. Install upper shroud. Tighten steering column mounting nuts and bolts.
  4. On vehicles with air bag, unlock steering column using lock cylinder. Cycle steering wheel one turn to left and one turn to right to align intermediate shaft into steering shaft.
  5. Tighten connecting clamp nut to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(ref-42980-S37550902672001011700000) . Install lower shroud. Install cruise control module (if equipped). Install cover at knee level of instrument panel. Connect battery ground cable. Check AIR BAG light system for faults.
  1. On models with air bags, disable air bag system. See «DISABLING & ACTIVATING AIR BAG SYSTEM»(ref-42980-S18262376172001011700000). Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). Remove contact assembly. Remove steering column. See «STEERING COLUMN R & I»(ref-42980-S04297141212001011700000).
  2. Remove "U" joint, lower coil spring, sensor ring and lower tolerance ring from lower end of steering shaft. (Scheme 1)and (Scheme 2). Remove slip ring brush assembly. Note installation position of turn-signal cancel cam and remove from steering shaft. CAUTION: Lock cylinder housing is under spring pressure. Hold lock cylinder housing stationary while removing tilt pivot bolts to prevent rapid expansion of tilt position spring.
  3. Remove ignition switch. Remove upper snap ring and upper coil spring. Remove upper tolerance ring. Remove 2 tilt pivot bolts. Remove lock cylinder housing from lock actuator housing.
  4. To remove upper or middle bearing, support lock cylinder housing and tap out bearing with punch and plastic hammer. To install, reverse removal procedure.
  1. Remove steering wheel and steering column. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000) and «STEERING COLUMN R & I»(ref-42980-S04297141212001011700000).
  2. Remove "U" joint from lower end of steering shaft. (Scheme 6) Remove multifunction switch. Remove upper bearing retaining plate. Remove upper bearing retaining ring. Remove lock cylinder housing from outer tube.
  3. Remove sensor ring shield from lower end of outer tube (if equipped). Remove coil spring retainer, coil spring and sensor ring from lower end of steering shaft.
  4. Insert screwdriver into slot in shaft sleeve. Expand sleeve slightly and remove from steering shaft. Remove steering shaft and lock cylinder housing assembly from outer tube.
  5. Support edge of lock cylinder housing in vise. Strike steering shaft sharply with a plastic mallet to drive shaft out of bearing in lock cylinder housing. Remove bearing from housing.
  1. Insert steering shaft into outer tube. Slide lock cylinder housing over steering shaft and tighten 2 lock cylinder housing-to-outer tube retaining bolts.
  2. Place upper bearing and sleeve over steering shaft and into bore of lock cylinder housing.
  3. Place a piece of pipe, 3/4" (19 mm) I.D. x 3 1/2" (89 mm) long, over steering shaft. Insert steering wheel bolt through large washer. Thread bolt and washer into steering shaft.
  4. Tighten steering wheel bolt until steering shaft is drawn up into bearing enough to allow installation of new upper bearing retaining ring. Remove bolt and pipe. Install new retaining ring.
  5. Install multifunction switch. Install shaft sleeve, sensor ring (if equipped), coil spring and new coil spring retainer. Install steering sensor and steering sensor shield.
  6. Install "U" joint and tighten upper pinch bolt to specification. See «TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS»(ref-42980-S37550902672001011700000) . Install steering column in vehicle. Install steering wheel.

Removal (Cougar & Thunderbird Tilt Wheel)

  1. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). Remove column end shroud by unsnapping from retainer clip at 9 o'clock position. (Scheme 6)
  2. Remove upper and lower shrouds. Remove conical spring and upper bearing retaining plate. Remove upper bearing retaining ring. CAUTION: Tilt casting is under spring pressure. To prevent rapid expansion of tilt spring, hold tilt casting stationary while removing pivot pins.
  3. Move tilt casting to uppermost position. Using Pivot Pin Remover Handle (T67P-3D739-C) and Pivot Pin Remover (T67P-3D739-B or T70P-3D739-A), remove pivot pins. Lift tilt casting from lock cylinder housing and remove tilt spring.
  4. To remove upper (small) bearing, tap bearing out from bottom side using a drift punch. To remove middle (large) bearing, tap bearing out from bottom side using a drift punch, working from side to side in casting relief areas.

Installation (Cougar & Thunderbird Tilt Wheel)

  1. To install, reverse removal procedure. DO NOT press on inner race of bearing when installing into tilt casting.
  2. Install tilt spring between tilt casting and lock cylinder housing. Move tilt casting to uppermost position. Align holes in tilt casting and lock cylinder housing. Using "C" clamp, press pivot pins into holes until even with surface of tilt casting.
  3. Install new upper bearing retaining ring. Install upper bearing retaining plate and conical spring. Ensure conical spring snaps into groove on steering shaft. Install upper and lower shrouds. Install column end shroud. Install steering wheel.
  1. On vehicles with air bag, park vehicle with wheels in straight-ahead position. Turn lock cylinder to LOCK position. Rotate steering wheel counterclockwise approximately 16 degrees until locked. CAUTION: Before removing contact assembly (clockspring), see «CONTACT ASSEMBLY (CLOCKSPRING)»(ref-42980-S15425691022001011700000) under SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
  2. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). On vehicles with air bag, remove contact assembly (clockspring).
  3. Remove upper and lower shrouds. (Scheme 4) Remove upper bearing retainer plate. Remove upper bearing retaining ring. Insert 2 screwdrivers under upper bearing and pry against 2 ramps in casting to remove upper bearing and sleeve.
  1. To ensure an interference fit between upper bearing and steering shaft, use a punch to rough steering shaft surface where bearing inner race rides on shaft.
  2. Position new bearing and sleeve on steering shaft. Place a piece of pipe, 3/4" (19 mm) I.D. x 3 1/2" (89 mm) long, over steering shaft. Insert steering wheel bolt through large washer. Thread steering wheel bolt into steering shaft. Tighten bolt until bearing is seated onto shaft. Remove bolt and pipe.
  3. Install new upper bearing retaining ring. Install upper bearing retainer plate. Install contact assembly (clockspring) onto upper bearing retaining plate. Ensure ground wire is attached at lower attaching screw. Remove tape (original contact assembly) or locking insert (new contact assembly).
  4. Connect clockspring electrical connector to column harness. Install steering wheel. Install upper and lower shrouds.
  5. Connect clockspring electrical connector to air bag module. Install air bag module. Connect battery ground cable. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.
  1. On vehicles with air bag, ensure front wheels are in straight-ahead position. Turn lock cylinder to LOCK position. Rotate steering wheel counterclockwise approximately 16 degrees until locked. CAUTION: Before removing contact assembly (clockspring), see «CONTACT ASSEMBLY (CLOCKSPRING)»(ref-42980-S15425691022001011700000) under SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
  2. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). On vehicles with air bag, remove contact assembly (clockspring).
  3. Unsnap and remove column end shroud from retaining clip located at 9 o'clock position of column end shroud. (Scheme 5) Remove upper and lower shrouds. CAUTION: Tilt casting is under spring pressure. To prevent rapid expansion of tilt spring, hold tilt casting stationary while removing pivot pins.
  4. Remove conical spring and upper bearing retainer plate. Remove upper bearing retaining ring from shaft. Adjust tilt casting to uppermost position. Remove pivot pins from tilt casting.
  5. Lift tilt casting from lock cylinder housing and remove tilt spring. Tilt casting contains large and small upper bearing assemblies, tilt lever and lock lever. To remove upper (small) bearing, tap out bearing from bottom side using a drift punch.
  6. To remove middle (large) bearing, tap out bearing from top side using a drift punch, working evenly from side to side in casting relief areas.

To install, reverse removal procedure. DO NOT apply pressure to inner race when installing bearings into tilt casting. Press conical spring onto steering shaft until spring snaps into groove. Connect battery ground cable. Check AIR BAG light for system faults.

  1. Remove steering wheel. See «STEERING WHEEL & HORN PAD»(ref-42980-S34120524902001011700000). Remove upper and lower shrouds. (Scheme 3) CAUTION: Before removing contact assembly (clockspring), see «CONTACT ASSEMBLY (CLOCKSPRING)»(ref-42980-S15425691022001011700000) under SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
  2. Remove contact assembly (clockspring). Remove bearing retainer plate. Remove 2 nuts retaining steering shaft flexible coupling to flange on steering input shaft. Remove upper bearing snap ring from steering shaft.
  3. Pull outward on steering shaft. Shaft will move approximately 1/4" (6.35 mm). Using 2 screwdrivers in casting relief areas, pry bearing off steering shaft.
  1. To ensure an interference fit between upper bearing and steering shaft, use a punch to rough steering shaft surface where bearing inner race rides on shaft.
  2. Install sleeve and new bearing onto steering shaft. Place a piece of pipe, 3/4" (19 mm) I.D. x 3 1/2" (89 mm) long, over steering shaft. Insert steering wheel bolt through large washer. Thread steering wheel bolt into steering shaft. Tighten bolt until bearing is seated onto shaft. Remove bolt and pipe. Install new snap ring. Install bearing retainer plate.
  3. Install metal safety strap and bolt assembly through flexible coupling of steering shaft and through flange on steering input shaft. Tighten 2 safety strap nuts. DO NOT overtighten nuts. Install upper and lower trim shrouds. Install steering wheel. Install NEW steering wheel bolt.

Steering column is not serviceable and must be replaced as an assembly.

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