Steering Column

The steering column is the mechanical linkage between the steering wheel and the steering gear. It contains various switches and is able to tilt and telescope to suit driver preference. The steering wheel is mounted to a shaft which passes through the center of the steering column to the upper steering shaft. The upper steering shaft then connects to the lower steering shaft, which is connected to the steering gear. The upper and lower connections utilize U-joint type knuckles. The steering shaft is centered by roller ball bearings within the steering column. The tilt and telescopic functions of the steering column are controlled by a mechanical lever on the underside of the steering column, which uses a cam to lock and unlock the steering column. When the tilt/telescopic column lever is unlocked, the steering column can then be adjusted to various positions. The steering column switches (multi-function and ignition) are mounted to the steering column. These switches are covered by the upper and lower steering column shrouds.