Steering - Squeaking/Rubbing Noise When Turning
File In Section: 3 - Steering/SuspensionBulletin No.: 53-32-01
Date: February, 1995
Subject:
Squeaking or Rubbing Noise in Steering Column when Turning the Steering Wheel (Retorque U-Joint Pinch Bolt)
Models:
1993-95 Geo Prizm
CONDITION
When the steering wheel is turned in either direction or when starting or stopping the vehicle, a squeak or rubbing noise may be heard originating from the steering column. It may sound like a bearing squeak.
CAUSE
During assembly of the steering yoke and the steering rack into the vehicle, the steering yoke may have been assembled and torqued to the steering rack before the steering rack attachment bolts were fully torqued to the front-of-dash bulkhead. Using this attachment bolt tightening sequence may cause a side load in the steering column, which creates the squeak. The assembly plant sequence after 1995 model year VIN SZO29499 has been changed to assure that the steering rack is fully torqued to the front-of-dash bulkhead prior to torquing the steering yoke attachment to the steering rack.
CORRECTION
Loosen the steering column U-Joint pinch bolt (shown by the arrow in the attached diagram). This bolt is accessible from inside the driver's compartment where the steering column goes through the bulkhead. Retorque the U-joint pinch bolt to 27 Nm (20 lb.ft.) of torque.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:
Labor Operation Labor Time
E7783 0.2 hr